Heliopolis Elderly Center

Here at the Heliopolis Elderly Center, grandparents are a little bit parents, a little bit teachers, and a little bit best friends. Sometimes we forget just how important and special grandparents are… Grandparents and children have a special connection that is proven to make grandparents live longer and make children emotionally resilient. It has been a tradition at the Heliopolis Elderly Center to celebrate Grandparents' Day as it gives us an opportunity to treasure that connection and spend some quality, family time together. The event was well planned by our staff and volunteers along with our teachers. The celebration took place on Tuesday the 26th of July, 2023 in person with all the grandparents along with their grandchildren receiving an invite.

It is rightly said, “We wouldn’t be here without our grandparents.” The motive behind the day’s celebration was to honor the Heliopolis grandparents for all the sacrifices they have made and continue to make for their families, and also to create awareness among the children of the moral support, information, and guidance they can offer their grandparents as they age (and vice-versa). The day began with a 'Welcome Song and Dance' specially composed for this day that gave a feeling to the grandparents of being loved and wanted by the grandchildren, volunteers, teachers, and our staff. 

Many exciting games were conducted to give the older adults time to celebrate with their families fully. The well-prepared presentation created awareness among the grandchildren acknowledging the important contribution made by grandparents to the well-being and education of children within their family and a note of appreciation to them. The organized dance and play sessions allowed the grandparents to spend some happy and relaxed moments with their grandchildren.

At the end of our celebration, all of the grandchildren thanked their grandparents for spending their valuable time by joining in this beautiful celebration. Many grandparents said that they were fortunate to be a part of this wonderful Institution that goes out of its way to make them feel so special year after year. Here are some kind words from a few of the Heliopolis grandparents;

"Today’s celebration of 'Grandparents Day' was indeed a heart-touching experience for us. The entire family got together for this wonderful program. A special thanks to the entire team at the Heliopolis Elderly Center." - Maria

"I am very thankful to the Heliopolis Elderly Center for celebrating such a wonderful 'Grandparents Day' after the tragic pandemic. We were very happy to join in the marvelous celebration this morning. It was a fun and enjoyable program, and we were very happy to see the enthusiasm and excitement in the faces of the children. The games and songs were the most enjoyable. Thank you, Heliopolis Elderly Center, for giving us this wonderful moment." -Euzita

Links:

• Instituto Velho Amigo - Heliopolis Elderly Center