There are places where time seems to slow down, where the days repeat themselves and silence settles in, disguised among memories and old photographs. These are the care homes, houses of long lives, full of stories that deserve to continue being told. It was to these places that the project “Jogos Sem Idade” wanted to reach. More than bringing activities, we wanted to bring presence, companionship, and time — a gift so simple and yet so valuable.

On September 9 and 25, our team visited the Centro Comunitário da Vera Cruz, and on October 9, the Florinhas do Vouga, where we carried out three activities designed to spark smiles, stimulate memories, and create bonds between generations. Between laughter, conversations, and moments of nostalgia, we experienced times that showed us that, even as the years go by, there is always room to play, to learn, and to feel.

Each visit was a small meeting of worlds: that of the young, full of energy and curiosity, and that of the elderly, full of wisdom and stories to share. And it was in this exchange that something greater was born — a feeling of belonging, empathy, and humanity. Because when someone sits beside us to listen, to play, or simply to smile, we are reminded that we are still seen, that we are still important.

More than an activity, “Jogos Sem Idade” is a collective hug. It is proof that loneliness can be softened through simple gestures: a shared laugh, a hand resting on another, a look that says “I am here with you.” Every moment showed us that aging is not about losing color, but about changing its tone. And that joy, when shared, has the power to rejuvenate even the most tired heart.

That is why the presence of volunteers and caregivers is so essential. They are the ones who, with patience and dedication, help build lighter days and restore hope to those who thought they had already lived it all. Because life does not end with age — it only transforms. And as long as there are those willing to listen, to laugh, and to be present, there will always be reasons to continue living with a sparkle in the eyes.

In the end, what remains are not only the activities or the games, but the bonds that were created. It is the certainty that a simple gesture can brighten an entire day. It is the feeling that, for a few hours, we all built a home — not of walls, but of affections. A home made of empathy, smiles, and humanity.

“Jogos Sem Idade” is part of Agora Aveiro’s “Random Acts of Kindness” project. It was held in partnership with the Centro Comunitário da Vera Cruz of Aveiro and the Florinhas do Vouga. It is supported by the Aveiro City Hall and the Portuguese Institute for Sport and Youth (IPDJ - Instituto Português do Desporto e Juventude I.P.)