About 900 senior citizens, ITE College West students, and volunteers took part in the Lions Befrienders Service Association (Singapore) Befriending Walk 2013 on Sunday morning.

The event, in its sixth year, is meant to promote active living and positive ageing among the elderly. It is also a platform for students of ITE College West, to interact with senior citizens in the community.

In a speech after the 1.8km walk, guest of honour and Health Minister Gan Kim Yong said he hoped that through this walk, there would be greater awareness of the needs of seniors as well as opportunities for them to get to know one another and develop friendships and emotional support as they age.

Lions Befrienders executive director Goh Boo Han said events such as these ensure the elderly are not isolated from the community.

Madam Cheng Siew Kee, 77, who has lived alone since 2008, when her husband passed away, said she has made many friends through activities organised by the organisation.

"I don't feel lonely anymore. I have met many friends of different races. I have also picked up new skills, such as crotcheting," said Madam Cheng.