In the true spirit of the festive season, around 30 beloved elders from our ElderAid programme gathered on 16 December for a yuletide day of fun and meaningful connection. Held at the Carlton Hotel, the Christmas lunch was a joyous occasion filled with chatter, laughter, and a sumptuous holiday feast.

Seniors indulged in an array of tasty soups, fresh seafood, and meat carvings, followed by delicately crafted desserts prepared by the Carlton Hotel’s chefs. Volunteers from Singapore Red Cross and Carlton Hotel also engaged with the elders, assisting with the meal and sharing warm festive wishes, ensuring every senior felt cherished.

The ElderAid programme is a social and wellness programme providing befriending, eldercare, first aid, psychological first aid, and first response to build the resilience of elders, to achieve community ageing-in-place.

Photos: Seniors enjoying the buffet spread and having fun getting to know each other over the meal

For Mr David Tang, 61, who came for lunch with his wife,  the event was a source of great joy. It was David’s first time attending one of ElderAid’s events. Although he registered to participate in ElderAid’s programmes last year, he was unable to be present as it was on weekdays and he was working. He was very glad to have made it to today's event.

Photo: Mr David Tang, 61, posing with his wife in front of the Christmas Tree Display at the Carlton Hotel Lobby.

“The food was very delicious; I ate so much till I burst!” he shared. “I enjoy such events as it gives me an outlet to interact with other seniors and make new friends.” 

Singapore Red Cross Ambassador Karen Liew also joined the festivities, personally engaging with the elders and spreading cheer, exemplifying the dedication to community connection.

Photos: Singapore Red Cross Ambassador Karen Liew interacting and sharing a meal with the seniors.

Looking ahead, Shelley Mary D/O RS Sanasi, 67, another senior who attended the event shared a simple wish: I hope to continue to keep myself active and involved with these outings in 2026 as it gives me something to look forward to.

Photo: Shelley Mary D/O RS Sanasi posing in front of the Christmas Tree Display at the Carlton Hotel Lobby

A heartfelt thank you goes to Carlton Hotel Singapore for their immense generosity in hosting this event and sponsoring the festive meal and venue.

Photos by Wong Leong Jeam, volunteer photographer