There was gaiety and merriment for the 26 residents, ranging from 80 to 100, at the Yayasan Teratai Aged Care Centre at No. 8 Jalan Foo Choon Nyit, Ipoh. It was time again for their annual Christmas party.
Far right: Mariam Foo
The party started off with Christmas carols followed by a slow foxtrot (or whatever trot one was able to do) whilst singing along to Chinese oldies. Mariam Foo, a retired teacher and resident of 6 years, led a laughter session and got everyone ho-ho-ha-ha-ha-ing away; it was great fun and thoroughly enjoyed by all. A line dance performed by friends of the Centre followed suit. Presents were given out to residents by Mrs Ho Lian Foo, representing her husband, on behalf of the board of trustees. The evening ended with a sumptuous home-made dinner.
The Centre can accommodate a maximum of 29 residents. It just so happens that all the present residents are ladies, which once prompted someone to ask Yayasan Teratai General Manager, Cecilia Chan, if this is a ‘convent’. The Centre is run by Marina Phung, the matron, with four nurses, six maids, a cook and a driver.
After breakfast every morning, residents partake of different exercises like Qigong, Tai Chi and Yoga. Walks in the beautiful grounds are encouraged and some residents occupy their time with watching television or, playing cards or board games, like ‘Snakes and Ladders’.
Another significant event held at the Centre is the Chinese New Year reunion celebration which usually coincides with the return of family members.