The power of shared meals

A taste of community at Still Waters Day Center

Still Waters Adult Day Center is more than a place of care – it is a sanctuary of connection, dignity, and purpose for older adults.

With a person-centered approach, the center recognizes that each guest carries a lifetime of stories, traditions, and evolving needs. Rooted in faith, Still Waters integrates spiritual practices into daily routines, offering moments of reflection through devotions and meal-time blessings.

Beyond faith, the center cultivates a vibrant atmosphere through a diverse array of activities, engaging guests physically, cognitively, socially, and emotionally. Whether through art, music, movement, or interactive discussions, every moment is an opportunity for joy, learning, and companionship.

Photo provided by Pooja Thakkar

This past month, I had the privilege of bringing Taste of Community to Still Waters – a gathering where food became more than just sustenance; it became a bridge to laughter, stories, and human connection. We played a unique version of bingo, designed not only for entertainment but as a way to spark organic engagement. Each square led to heartfelt conversations – memories of childhood kitchens, family gatherings, favorite comfort foods, and cherished traditions passed down through generations.

With every number called, stories unfolded. Some were lighthearted, like the nostalgia of a mother’s homemade soup. Others carried the quiet weight of longing – of empty chairs at the dinner table, missed birthdays, and the ache of time apart. One moment, in particular, stood out: An elderly gentleman shared that it was his birthday. He had a plate of dumplings in front of him, but no calls from family, no visitors, no celebration. He wasn’t bitter – just wistful, longing for a simple “Happy Birthday” from those he once held close.

It was a poignant reminder that food, no matter how delicious, tastes different when eaten alone.

Yet, in that room, something beautiful happened. We laughed over Girl Scout cookies, shared stories of holiday feasts, and filled the silence with warmth. In that moment, no one was forgotten.

Photo provided by Pooja Thakkar

At Taste of Community, we believe meals are more than just nourishment – they are moments of belonging. Whether it’s a birthday, an anniversary, a festival, or just an ordinary day, the act of sitting together and truly listening turns an ordinary meal into something deeply meaningful.

Still Waters embodies this philosophy every day, ensuring that their guests are not just cared for but truly seen. The center fosters an environment where stories matter, where traditions are honored, and where no one has to eat alone.

Photo provided by Pooja Thakkar

To all the fathers, mothers, grandparents, and elders whose stories deserve to be heard: You are valued. Your memories, your traditions, your presence matter.

Let’s pull up a chair, serve a plate, and share a story – before it’s too late.

Pooja Thakkar is working to build connections through cuisine. You can read her column each week in the pages of The Reporter.