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City Hosts Parade to Bring Joy to Long-Term Care Residents

City of Albuquerque departments partner on the event to help commemorate Older Americans Month.

The City of Albuquerque Department of Senior Affairs Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) celebrated Older Americans Month today, by hosting a Senior Serenade for residents of the Spanish Trails Rehab Suites.  The event was part of an ongoing effort to engage volunteers and provide support, connection and entertainment for residents of long-term care facilities. Through a partnership with the State of New Mexico’s Ombudsman, and with the support of the City of Albuquerque Police Department, Arts and Culture Department and Office of Civic Engagement, the residents were treated to a car parade, with encouraging messages and live music.

“During the pandemic, the Department worked on new and creative ways to keep volunteers engaged,” said Anna Sanchez, Director of the Department of Senior Affairs. “The Senior Serenade Parade project is a fantastic way to bring joy and kindness to seniors in our city.  It also presents opportunities to collaborate with other partners to enhance these events in making them even more successful while solidifying a strong sense of community.”

This year’s Older Americans Month is focused on the theme “Communities in Strength,” in honor of the resiliency and strength of Albuquerque’s seniors.  Ninety-one long-term care residents were able to enjoy the car parade with pristine classic cars, Albuquerque Police Department show cars and vehicles decorated by volunteers with uplifting messages, flowers, and balloons. In addition, the local group “Los Trinos” provided live music that residents enjoyed safely from their outdoor commons area.   

Throughout the pandemic, Senior Affairs continued to provide access to basic services such as meals, transportation and care coordination to Albuquerque seniors. Since March 2020, more than 720,600 meals were served at drive through meal sites and through home-delivered meals. Beginning in March 2021, Senior Affairs began bringing back limited activities at Senior Centers and Fitness Centers. Information on re-opening, programs and COVID-safe precautions can be found at cabq.gov/seniors.