The “Crizanteme,” “Viișorenii,” and “Vârsta de Argint” Initiative Groups recently participated in a workshop designed to enhance communication skills, foster more harmonious relationships, and equip members with effective strategies for managing emotions and conflict. The workshop focused on “The Art of Communication and Interpersonal Relationships.”

Facilitated by psychologist Natalia Jurjiu, the workshop aimed to bolster seniors’ emotional resilience and cultivate their ability to navigate stressful and conflict-prone situations. Through an interactive and participatory approach, the sessions focused on refining communication competencies, promoting empathy, and elucidating the impact of emotions on interpersonal dynamics.

The workshop commenced with introductory remarks, an overview of training objectives, and an icebreaker activity. The initial module addressed fundamental elements of interpersonal communication, key communication barriers, and strategies for overcoming these obstacles. Participants explored passive, aggressive, and assertive communication styles, applying their newly acquired knowledge through a practical simulation exercise.

A critical component of the workshop was the development of active listening and empathy. An interactive discussion highlighted the distinction between hearing and active listening, emphasizing the latter’s importance in cultivating positive relationships. Participants engaged in a paired exercise, “Active Listening Techniques,” learning to provide constructive feedback and clearly articulate their thoughts and emotions.

Following a brief coffee break, participants resumed the workshop with renewed focus. This segment included a brainstorming session on diverse communication modalities and a practical exercise on aligning verbal, nonverbal, and paraverbal communication. This module aimed to empower seniors to better synchronize their facial expressions, gestures, and tone of voice with their intended message.

The “Wheel of Conflict” exercise proved particularly valuable, enabling participants to explore various conflict types and effective strategies for managing emotions during such situations. A supplementary film screening provided further insight into the potential consequences of unresolved conflict on interpersonal relationships.

The workshop concluded with a question-and-answer session, allowing seniors to discuss the practical application of their newly acquired skills and knowledge.

Participant feedback underscored the significance of such initiatives. Seniors expressed appreciation for the interactive format and a strong desire for future workshops.

“I don’t have much schooling, but what I heard today I liked. We need to talk more with people, to listen to them carefully, especially the elderly and lonely. Many times, even a word helps” commented Mrs. Ana Cobileanschi, a member of the “Viișorenii” Initiative Group from Viișoara, Glodeni district.

Mr. Agapie Marcel added, “I am glad that I participated in this workshop. It would be good if such meetings with the psychologist were organized more often.”

Mrs. Gureva Eugenia also emphasized the workshop’s value: “I listened carefully to the psychologist’s explanations. I understood how important it is to be an active, but patient, empathetic listener. It will be easier for me to talk to the people I visit.”

Mrs. Tamara Pascaru, a member of the “Vârsta de Argint” Initiative Group from Cajba, Glodeni district, noted, “We received a wealth of practical information on key communication elements. The seniors were actively engaged and demonstrated considerable ingenuity during the practical sessions, where various real-life scenarios were simulated.”

Through this activity, AO “CASMED” strives to establish a platform for social interaction and continuous learning for seniors, facilitating their social integration and providing them with the tools necessary for effective communication and improved interpersonal relationship management.