“Jianzi”

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Chinese seniors play “Jianzi” (kicking shuttlecock) at The Salvation Army senior center in the Bensonhurst section of Brooklyn, N.Y. This group includes Joyce Lin, Tiger Wong, Wah Chen, and Feng Wang. The senior center, which is on three floors, is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the week. As many as 150–200 seniors can take part in ping pong, karaoke, badminton, tai chi, dancing, orchestra, and other activities before and after lunch. The center also offers worship services on Sundays. “They can participate in various activities to keep them more active,” said Kelly Chui Wah Kong, the center’s administrator. “It gives them a place to hang out and socialize with other seniors and not just staying at home. A lot of seniors get depression through just sitting at home.”

Many Salvation Army churches provide programs for seniors. To find one near you, go to www.salvationarmyusa.org