Every Thursday during the month of October is designated as Older Persons Spa Days, which was initiated in 2017 as a means of giving back to the pillars of the nation and allowing the students to have hands on training.
“Once they become a certain age, no one pays attention to them so we saw this as a way of giving back. It is two-fold because the students get the chance to get a completion and a chance to mingle with the senior citizens. This is our second year doing it with the Ministry and it has been quite successful because even after, the senior citizens still come back,” said Cosmetology Instructor, Ms. Petra Newton.
She said that since the Older Persons Spa Days inception last year, the school has accommodated over 60 seniors to various spa treatments, some of which they may not have experienced before. Some of the services offered to the older persons include manicures, pedicures, facials, shampoo services, braiding, extensions and perms.
“We do this because we love it and we also want to get an appreciation for the skilled area. Giving back brings that love and appreciation for the service and industry,” she added.
Mrs. Sylvanie Taylor, who received a manicure, said that she is pleased to have had these services for the second year now and will definitely be back for other treatments.
“I am enjoying it very well indeed. I came last year and I enjoyed it also and I’m back again next week for my hair,” she said.
While waiting to receive her spa treatment, Ms. Bernadette Dickenson reflected on the activities she’s attended so far for the Month of Older Persons.
“I am a part of the family of the elderly and it is a good feeling being among the older ones. The various activities I attended were good and I am enjoying all of them so far. We have been to Nevis and now I’m here at AVEC to get my hair done,” she said.