Study on ‘Aging in a Foreign Land’ released at India Rainbow’s Seniors Symposium

In celebration of the ‘Seniors Month’ in June, India Rainbow Community Services of Peel hosted a day-long Senior’s Symposium on Thursday, June 18th 2015 at Sagan Banquet Hall. Over 260 seniors attended the event. The seniors came dressed in colourful ethnic costumes which added to the excitement of the day that lay ahead. India Rainbow, along with Sheridan Centre for Elder Research, and with financial support from Mississauga-Halton LHIN (Local Health Integration Network) participated in a research study on: Aging in a Foreign Land: Exploring current and emerging support needs of South Asian Immigrants 65+ living in Halton and Peel. A report on the findings of the study was released by Marta Owsik, Project Coordinator and Researcher. The report established that ‘The Regions of Peel and Halton are experiencing growth in their older adult population in general, and specifically, in their population of older South Asian immigrants. With this growth it will become increasingly important to understand the unique experiences and needs of this group and to provide culturally appropriate services’. The purpose of the study was to identify current and emerging community support and health needs as experienced by older South Asian immigrants. Later during the day, members of India Rainbow’s Seniors Wellness Program enthusiastically participated in dance performances, poetry recitation, games and short skits which highlighted issues that are prevalent in our society. It was amazing to see such talent on display, which only goes to prove, that age is no barrier if you have the will and determination to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle “It was a very well planned and conducted program which kept all the seniors enthralled throughout the day. It is very heartening to see many seniors perform on the stage at this ripe age. This is a direct result of motivating skills of their respective group’s Coordinators”, said Commander Sanjeeva Aggarwal, Leader, Malton Group. The entertaining day also included several raffle prizes and a group dance performance by members from the Shiamak Davar group. The event provided seniors with an opportunity to meet other seniors from our different sites, discuss needs and gaps in services, as well as to interact and socialize with each other. For more information about our Seniors Services Program, please contact India Rainbow Community Services of Peel at 905-507-6099 in Mississauga and 905-595-1669 in Brampton.