Skype services at the Mellieha elderly day centre

According to a 2011 NSO survey about the use of information technology in Malta, 16,000 seniors aged between 65 and 74 years, had a computer at home. 4,700 of them the internet to purchase a service online.

Addressing the press during the launch of Skype services at the Mellieha day centre, parliamentary secretary Mario Galea said the centres brought an important change in the lives of the seniors.

"They are an opportunity for the elderly to remain active within their community and stay abreast with all that is happening around them," Galea said, adding that these centres help the elderly not to feel socially isolated.

Malta currently has 19 day centres that cater for about 2,000 seniors. The services offered include podology, dance lessons, keep fit, use of computers, crafts, talks, bingo and other activities related to the festive seasons.

The Mellieha centre opens daily from Monday to Friday from 7.45am to 4.00pm. In collaboration with the Mellieha local council, the day centre also offers physical exercises sessions organised by the Malta Council for Sport twice a week.