Caring for our Seniors: Nashville, TN
About three years ago, my journey as a volunteer at a local senior living community began in an unexpected way. Following a memorial service in our family, we were left with many beautiful flowers. Instead of letting them go to waste, my parents and I decided to bring the vases to a nearby senior living community and deliver them to the residents. We went door to door, handed out the flowers, and spent a few minutes talking with each person. Even in our time of grief, seeing their smiles and gratitude brought us a lot of comfort. It planted the seed for something much larger in my life – to continue on this path of compassion.
In the following years, we visited the seniors from time to time. We spoke about visiting more frequently, but as life grew busier, more time would pass between visits. Eventually, an opportunity arose to do something meaningful. In honor of Sathya Sai’s 100th birthday and Avatar Declaration Day on October 18 2025, the Sri Sathya Sai Center of Nashville, TN set a goal of completing 100 hours of service. As our contribution, we hosted a celebration, “Love Our Seniors Day", at the senior living community.
Alongside Center members, friends, and neighbors, we served a delicious meal and created gift jars containing 100 "love notes” that would cheer the seniors. We also pampered the residents with manicures and massages, performed household chores and gardening to beautify their home, and entertained them with English devotional songs.
While the 100th birthday milestone has passed, we have continued our visits every month because the relationships we have built means so much to us.
During each visit, we serve about 45 residents. We continue to go door- to-door to ensure everyone receives some personal attention. While my mother and I are the main visitors, sometimes we are accompanied by neighbors or friends. This past Christmas was particularly special as our entire family, including my grandmother, were able to join us. We often bring homemade cookies or brownies, and during the holidays, we distribute Christmas gifts, Valentine’s Day cards, and small treats. Occasionally, we bring flowers, which serves as a touching reminder of how this journey began.
Over time, I have realized that the most important thing we offer isn't a physical gift, but our loving presence. I have learned the value of listening, patience, and honoring the life stories shared by the residents.
One resident left a lasting impression. When we first met her, she seemed unfriendly and unwilling to talk. However, by showing up with kindness, we eventually earned her trust. Today, she greets us with a wide smile and speaks freely. Witnessing that change firsthand taught me the true power of persistent love.
Many residents share how much they look forward to our visits, with some even waiting by their doors for our arrival. Staff members have also noted that these monthly visits continue to brighten their lives and lift the residents' spirits.
Looking ahead, we plan to nurture these friendships with the elderly. We have distributed flyers with our contact information so residents can reach out whenever they need help, or simply a friendly person to talk to. What began with the distribution of memorial flowers has grown into a deeper goal of caring compassion—a pledge I hope to honor for many years to come.
~ Sohum Dogra, 7th grade, Nashville, TN