'A life without love is a life without meaning' was one of the main conclusions of the 'Love after 50' workshop, which brought together more than 100 people at NOVA Medical School for a relaxed and fun reflection on emotional relationships at this stage of life.
Organized by the Arroios Parish Social Commission - Active Ageing, Safety and Mobility Group, in partnership with NOVA Medical School, the CHRC - Comprehensive Health Research Center and the Lisbon AHA, this initiative addressed the challenges and opportunities of living love after 50, providing moments of sharing and learning for the parish's senior community.
The session was opened by Ana Rodrigues, a rheumatologist and professor at NOVA Medical School, Miguel Xavier, Deputy Director and Chairman of the Scientific Council of NOVA Medical School, Daniel Freitas, Coordinator of the Academia Sénior de Arroios, and Jaime Melancia, representative of the Plataforma Saúde em Diálogo.
One of the most memorable moments of the event was the theatrical performance “Amor depois dos 50” (Love after 50), presented by the Arroios Senior Academy Theater Group (ASA), which reflected the reality and some of the concerns of the older generations in a light and amusing way that brought loud laughter from the audience. This was followed by enriching talks by Maria do Céu Santo, a specialist in Gynecology and Obstetrics, and Renata Chaleira, a clinical psychologist, psychotherapist and sexologist at CUF, who provided a scientific and human view of the subject.
The closing ceremony was marked by the inauguration of the photographic exhibition “The only time is now”, by photographer Nicole Sanchez, which will be on display at NOVA Medical School until March 13, and by a symbolic moment - the presentation of a flower to each participant, reinforcing the message that love and affection are ageless.