No matter how busy life gets, making time for the seniors in our lives strengthens family bonds and supports their well-being. Research has shown that staying socially connected can significantly improve health and happiness in later years.

Beyond the usual meal out, shared activities offer richer opportunities to connect. They foster empathy and family identity among younger members, while giving seniors mental stimulation, movement and joy.

At Civil Service Club (CSC), a wide range of classes and workshops cater to all activity levels, with accessible facilities designed for those with mobility needs. From light sports to calming creative pursuits, here are some senior-friendly ways to enjoy a meaningful day out together.

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Strike up fun together

For a leisure sport that everyone can enjoy, head to Westwood Bowl at CSC @ Bukit Batok or Planet Bowl at CSC @ Tessensohn. Played in the comfort of air-conditioning, bowling is a low-impact activity with plenty of chances to sit, snack and take breaks in between turns — making it ideal for seniors and families alike.

Senior-friendly tip: Choose lighter balls (six to eight pounds) to protect elderly wrists, and ask the counter for ball ramps to make play easier and more stable.

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Relax and recharge in the water 

Swimming is a gentle, low-impact exercise that eases pressure on joints — perfect for seniors with knee or muscle aches. Active swimmers can work on their fitness at CSC @ Tessensohn’s Olympic-size lap pool, while those who prefer to take it easy can enjoy family time at the pool and waterplay area at CSC @ Loyang. For pure relaxation, a soothing soak in the infinity pool at CSC @ Changi is always a treat.

Senior-friendly tip: Head down during quieter hours to secure poolside seating, so older family members can rest comfortably between dips. For those less confident in the water, a pool noodle or flotation aid adds both safety and peace of mind.

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Unwind with a chalet staycation

You don’t have to wait for the year-end holidays to treat your parents to a getaway. A relaxing chalet stay at CSC @ Changi or CSC @ Loyang offers quality time close to home. It’s where dad can fire up the BBQ pit, the kids can challenge their grandparents to a board game, and everyone can wake up to a family stroll on the beach before enjoying kopi at Changi Village.

Senior-friendly tip: Check chalet layouts in advance for wheelchair-friendly or accessible features. Plan simple meals that suit senior palates and dietary needs, and pack essentials like water bottles, sunscreen and umbrellas for beach outings.

Spark joy with a creative workshop

For seniors who love hands-on pursuits, a creative activity can open the door to rewarding new experiences. From flower arranging and pottery to painting and Japanese pastel art, CSC’s event line-up offers plenty of choices. There are even online workshops for those who prefer to join from home.

As you work side by side, the creative process often encourages conversation. Many seniors find themselves reminiscing about past hobbies or sharing childhood stories while painting or crafting — making the activity as much about memory as it is about art.

Senior-friendly tip: Don’t worry about the finished product — it’s the process that counts. Ensure there’s good lighting, and lend a hand with tasks like opening paint bottles or setting up Zoom for online classes.

Keep moving with light exercise

CSC fitness corners and clubhouse surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for encouraging seniors to stay active. Even a gentle walk around the lobby or foyer can help maintain fitness, while simple stretches or balance exercises boost mobility and cardiovascular health. Doing these activities with loved ones not only makes them more enjoyable but also helps seniors build a routine they’re motivated to continue.

Senior-friendly tip: Let seniors set the pace and duration so they don’t feel rushed or uncomfortable. Use stools or benches for added support if needed.

Join the buzz at a community event

For seniors who enjoy lively environments, the CSC event calendar is packed with festive celebrations, cultural showcases, movie screenings and family fairs. From Mother’s Day dinners to Christmas carnivals, these occasions bring together live entertainment, interactive booths and funfair games designed for all ages and abilities.

Senior-friendly tip: Find out what type of activity your elderly relative enjoys most to ensure the event suits their preferences. If seating is limited, aim to arrive early so you can secure a comfortable spot for them.

Photo: BugTiger / Getty Images

Sing along to golden hits

Forget calling them “oldies” — these are golden classics that will have your parents swaying to the beat and singing their hearts out. Plan a family night at 8 Degree KTV Lounge, where belting out old favourites becomes a joyful way to bond. Research shows that singing can lift mood and improve memory recall, making it a fun boost to your loved ones’ mental health.  

Some may even want to take their hobby seriously and upgrade to taking singing classes.  CSC offers both English and Mandarin singing classes that will elevate your game and transform you from an amateur KTV singer to one fit for the stage.

Senior-friendly tip: Keep the volume at a comfortable level to protect hearing, and enlarge the lyrics so they’re easier to follow. Be sure to snap a group photo or video — these shared moments will become treasured keepsakes.

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Savour moments over a meal

Even if grandma doesn’t cook as often these days, she’ll still enjoy sitting down to a hearty meal — especially when it’s shared with family. After a clubhouse activity, gather everyone for a casual bite, whether it’s a halal shell-out feast at Dad’s Corner in CSC @ Bukit Batok or al fresco dining at Ohana Beach House in CSC @ Changi. Don’t forget to check the  CSC member promotion listing for dining discounts at clubhouses and nearby eateries.

Senior-friendly tip: Opt for menus that match your elder’s dietary needs, and pick venues with a calm ambience and comfortable seating to make conversation and bonding easier.

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Sign your family up as CSC members today

• As a CSC main member, you can apply for free virtual supplementary membership for your spouse and children under 21, as well as your parents and parents-in-law.
• Supplementary members can access clubhouse facilities via the Member’s Portal. If a physical card is needed, an admin fee of $10 applies.
• Retired Public Service Officers enjoy special CSC membership packages from one to five years, starting at just $72 a year.
• Not yet a member? Active Public Service Officers can sign up or renew a two-year Ordinary Term Membership for only $60 (usual $144) under the 2-Year SG60 Membership Promotion from 8 July to 31 December 2025.

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CSC clubhouse activities make it easy to enjoy a meaningful multigenerational day out without the hassle of travelling between venues. Plan your next family outing — from a refreshing swim to a creative workshop — at www.csc.sg and create lasting memories with your loved ones.