In commemoration of the International Day of Older Persons, American University of Sharjah (AUS) students visited Sharjah Old People's Home on October 19. Organized by AUS Community Services, the visit aimed to give attention to a group often ignored and to share a family atmosphere with the elderly. Each student spent the two-hour visit chatting with an elderly person.

The visit included some fun games. Students also distributed gift bags containing clothes and perfumes and offered the elderly traditional sweets, karak tea and Arabic coffee. They also handed out toys to children who were also visiting from the nearby orphanage.

"This was not my first visit to the elderly house. Each time I love seeing how their eyes shine from the happiness of our visit," said international relations student Jawhrah Al Jawead.

Mechanical engineering student Loay Farhat said, "The fact that, as humans, we still care for one another, that we still care to make others to smile, is a great feeling."

AUS Community Services holds an event for the elderly every semester. In Fall 2014, Community Services and the Student Council brought some elderly visitors to AUS to attend a Mother's Day celebration, and last year, they organized two visits in collaboration with the Islamic Club and the Saudi Cultural Club.

"I feel proud of our student volunteers for always remembering the senior members of the society and for spending quality time with them. These visits are highly appreciated by the elderly. They feel valued and cared for and the activities give them a break from their daily routine," said Dr. Moza Al Shehhi, Dean of Students.