'Home' for the Holidays at the Jamaica Older Adult Center

It’s the holiday season and this time of year can bring an array of emotions for older adults. Though the holidays can bring an overall sense of joy while spending quality time with family and friends, our staff at the Jamaica Older Adult Center recognize what a difficult time it can be for neighbors that don't have loved ones nearby. The distance may result in them withdrawing from social activities and feeling lonely and isolated.

As part of our commitment to encouraging senior independence and continued engagement, we were excited to treat older adults in the neighborhood with a meaningful holiday celebration for them and their peers. On November 16, for the Center's first Thanksgiving, participants from our older adult centers across Queens joined our Jamaica neighbors for live music, a dance party, arts & crafts, ping pong, an entertaining magician, and of course, delicious turkey. Participants of the Jamaica Older Adult Center were able to experience the holiday in a family environment, enjoying good food, making new friends and laughing with their peers. Also, by partnering with MetroPlusHealth, we were able to give free turkeys to older adults for them to bring home in time for Thanksgiving Day.