Bridging Generations: How a Top Senior Citizen Home in Kolkata Celebrated Life, Health, and Harmony

On 16th November, Jagriti Dham, the top senior citizen home in Kolkata witnessed a day whose warmth still lingers in every corner of our campus. It wasn’t just an event—it felt like a blessing. The air was alive with a rare magic as two extraordinary generations came together: the brave “Little Warriors” living with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) and our cherished senior residents.

In partnership with METTA Care Services, we celebrated “Life Across Generations”, a heartfelt gathering that seamlessly blended the innocence of Children’s Day with the purpose of World Diabetes Day. It became a moment where laughter, care, and shared strength bridged decades—creating memories that continue to glow long after the day has passed.

A Global Validation: Recognition by the IDF

Before we dive into the story of the day, we are bursting with pride to share that this initiative has received international acclaim. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) has officially listed our event on their platform.

This recognition validates our holistic approach to wellness and aligns perfectly with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) theme: “Diabetes across life stages.” It proves that when we care with purpose, the world takes notice. Learn more about this meaningful initiative and our commitment to holistic wellness on the official World Diabetes Day portal: https://worlddiabetesday.org/activities/events/diabetes-and-well-being-across-generations/

Bridging Two Worlds

The event, titled “Celebrating Life Across Generations”, began with a heartwarming convergence. On one side, we had our beloved senior residents, living what we fondly call their “second infancy”. On the other, we welcomed the “Little Warriors”—brave children fighting Type 1 Diabetes (T1D).

The most touching moment was a loving gesture. The children, with dirt on their hands and smiles on their faces, planted saplings. But they didn’t just plant them; they lovingly gifted these young plants to our senior residents.

It was a profound symbol—newly found “grandchildren” handing over life and growth to their extended family at Jagriti Dham, a senior citizen home in Kolkata. In that exchange, the gap between age groups vanished, replaced by the warmth of shared purpose.

Science Meets Soul

As the day progressed, we shifted focus to wellness and empowerment. Dr Debasis Basu, Chairman of METTA Dāna Foundation and Director of METTA Dāna Academy and a renowned diabetologist, led an interactive session titled “Insights that Inspire”. He moved beyond standard medical advice, delving into preventive elderly care and lifestyle balance for diabetic patients.

We believe that care must be tangible. To ensure our “Little Warriors” are equipped for a healthier future, the event facilitated the distribution of Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) devices. It was a moment where empathy and technology met, ensuring that the children have the best tools to manage their health.

“At Jagriti Dham, we believe that life’s true richness lies in connection—between generations, experiences, and emotions. This initiative beautifully reflects that belief, reminding us that compassion and care have no age.” — Shri Ravindra Chamaria, Chairman and Managing Director, Infinity Group & Founding Trustee, Jagriti Dham.

A Symphony of Ages

As the sun began to dip, the stage was taken by a living legend. Smt Bibha Sengupta, a 92-year-old Rabindra Sangeet icon, mesmerised the audience. Her voice, carrying the weight and beauty of nearly a century, filled the hall with grace.

She was joined by Sharmi Roynandi Dhar, a dynamic new-generation performer. Watching them perform together was the perfect metaphor for the day: the timeless wisdom of tradition harmonising beautifully with the vibrancy of the modern world.

As Shri Pulak Chamaria (Trustee) noted, “Events like these strengthen the bonds of empathy while inspiring both generations to learn from one another.”

By the time the event concluded, the “Little Warriors” had found new grandparents, and our residents had found a renewed sense of joy. At Jagriti Dham, we often say we are the best retirement living community in Kolkata, not just because of our facilities, but because of our philosophy. We believe care goes beyond physical health—it’s about purpose, joy, and the warmth of family, even if that family is found in new friends.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What are the symptoms of diabetes in the elderly?

Frequent urination, increased thirst, and tiredness are symptoms, but elderly people might not display these typical signs. Instead, they might show signs of confusion, dizziness, or recurring infections. Jagriti Dham’s nursing staff is trained to notice subtle changes in your loved one’s behaviour and physical health to ensure intervention at the earliest.

• What happens to diabetics when they get older?

With increasing age, diabetics are more prone to neuropathy (nerve damage), vision impairment, and severe, life-threatening drops in blood sugar. (hypoglycemia). Our team at Jagriti Dham, a senior citizen home in Kolkata helps to reduce these risks with a structured medication regimen and individualised diabetic-friendly meal plans that ward off the functional decline that typically comes with age.

• What are the first warning signs of diabetes?

The first warning signs of diabetes are excessive thirst, frequent urination, and unrelenting hunger. Other warning signs can include slow-healing wounds or tingling in the hands and feet. We at Jagriti Dham conduct proactive health screenings to detect these early warning signs in your loved one and make sure they receive the best care and lifestyle modifications while living in our facility.