Elder Programs

In 2000, SeAM's Board of Directors realized the increasing needs of refugee elders. In the Asian elders' homelands, families are expected to take care of their elders, but in the United States, this expectation conflicts with common American practices, making it difficult for middle-aged refugee adults to care both for their parents and their children. This causes families stress, and leaves elders feeling powerless and burdensome. They are caught between their expectations for the latter years of their lives and the changes they have experienced in moving to a new country.

These stresses have caused a rising trend of depression and isolation in refugee elders. The cultural disparities are further emphasized by the difficulties elders have addressing their medical needs and other senior issues, as well as cultural and language barriers between elders and other senior members of the community.

To help address these problems, SeAM created the Elders Programs, a socialization opportunity for refugee elders. On a weekly or bi-weekly basis, elders meet together to spend a morning socializing with others in their community, participating in activities such as parlor games or improvised bowling, and having the chance to discuss problems and gain educational material from our volunteers. The elders' opportunity to socialize gets them more actively involved in their community, provides them with venues to learn about important health and social issues, and relieves some of the stress on the whole family.

SeAM always welcomes help in its task to provide support for the refugee elder community. There are a variety of ways in which you can lend a hand:

Come volunteer.
We have the elder program in two different locations - the Hmong Elders meet every other Monday morning at First Lutheran in St. Paul, and the Cambodian elders meet every Thursday morning at Christ Lutheran. Volunteers help SeAM staff to set up tables, prepare tea, pick up and serve food, and clean up once everything is finished.

Give gifts.
We are always looking for non-English based activities or games for the Elder Programs (such as decks of cards), or Bingo prizes, such as hygiene items, lotions, school supplies, and other useful household objects.

Donate money.
Financial help allows SeAM to further expand the Elder Programs, offering a wider variety of activities and educational opportunities.

If you'd like to help with the Elder Programs, let us know by phone (651) 293-1261 or email seam-stpaul@hotmail.com.