CHICAGO: A good number of Seniors from Schaumburg, Orland Park and Naperville Adult Day Care Centers flocked together at the Schaumburg location of Universal Metro Asian Services to celebrate the Republic Day on Jan 26.
Decked in tri-colors of the Indian flag, the elderly sported saffron, green and white colors. Some of them roamed around in ‘Gandhi’ cap, while others held mini Indian flags to show their support.
With over 100 seniors and staff in attendance, the program started with unfurling of the Indian flag and singing of the National Anthem “Jan, Gan, Man…” One senior shared the importance and relevance of the Republic Day ceremony. It was followed by performance of groups of seniors who had been preparing for the past week. The day saw many performances including patriotic songs like “Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon…,” sher-o-shayari, poems, and dancing.
The atmosphere was cheerful and it was an experience to see such enthusiasm among seniors. The celebrations ended with hot, nutritious lunch for all seniors.
Universal Metro Asian Services has been providing Home Care and Adult Day Care Services for the elderly population of Illinois for the past 15 years. It understands and gives importance to the culture of the program participants, celebrating important events and festivals.
This gives the senior participants a chance to connect back to their roots and socialize with their friends.
Bena Patel & Jyotsna Vasudev
