When Sissy Kurian Mathew, a tour committee member of the Senior Citizens Forum in Chengannur, Alappuzha, suggested a cruise trip to shake away the ennui of retirement life, many were sceptical. But they decided to take up the challenge. The trip was so delightful that even those who entered the cruise in a wheelchair came out happily walking.

44 members of the senior citizens forum, between 60 and 84 years old, enjoyed a luxurious cruise trip, even though some had been struggling with health issues. The group flew from Kochi to Mumbai and then returned on a cruise ship. Those who boarded the ship in a wheelchair regained their strength and energy after two days of the trip. They spent a day and two nights on the ship, enjoying new experiences.

Forum president PD Shaji vows that he feels ten years younger after the trip. This trip is also a reply to many who ‘advised’ them to stay at home at this old age.

Trend makers
This is not the first time that the members of the Chengannur senior citizens forum have gone on trips. When the Vande Bharat train was launched in Kerala, they enjoyed a trip to Kozhikode. That trip became viral on social media, inspiring other age groups and residence associations to plan such trips. The forum has decided to conduct more such seasonal trips to keep the members engaged and excited.

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Thrilling trip
Many forum members stay alone at home as their children are settled abroad. The members say that the forum had planned a cruise trip to keep away stress and loneliness from their lives. The two-day trip strengthened their bond and gave them the confidence that there are people to support them. Although some of them had health issues, they supported and helped each other, to make the trip enjoyable for all. Moreover, such trips are great stress busters and boost energy. After the cruise trip was finalised, the members were engaged in its preparation for over a month. Focusing on the trip kept their minds relaxed and happy.   

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