Seniors go for gold at East Ayrshire’s Care Home Games
Kilmarnock saw the triumphant return of the Senior Care Home Games last week at which over 60 residents from East Ayrshire represented their care home teams across six sporting events.
Residents took part in archery, football, volleyball, boccia bowls, curling and basketball before being entertained by East Ayrshire Young Carers who performed signing and dance routines. Depute Provost John McGhee then presented residents with their winners’ medals.
The annual event was established by East Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership’s Allied Health Professionals and Scottish Care and has become a regular success, championing the spirit and contribution our older generations provide for our community.
This year’s event was a collaboration with East Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership’s Allied Health Professionals and Ayrshire 360.
The event receives support from many local organisations and services, including Ayrshire College, Care Home Professional Support Team, The Killie Community, Scottish Archery, Kilmarnock Barebow Archery, East Ayrshire Advocacy Services, The NEST Wellbeing Group, East Ayrshire Council’s SL33 and Health and Social Care staff all coming together to deliver a high quality and enjoyable experience for everyone taking part.
The games set out to challenge perceptions of our older people, who hold an active place in our communities and continue to inspire us all. This fun-filled event also exists to highlight the health and wellbeing benefits of staying active as we age.
Lianne McInally, East Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership’s Allied Health Professionals Senior Manager, explained: “If we become less active and don’t move as much, there are several risks that we might encounter as we age. Inactivity can increase our rate of physical and cognitive decline, potentially leading to falls and stays in hospital, and having less independence or becoming socially isolated.
“We want everyone to enjoy being active, and our Care Home Games demonstrate the many ways you can continue to participate in activities, whether that’s an organised sport or accessing equipment, or thinking about ways to build gentle exercise or movement into our daily routines. The oldest resident who took part was aged 102 and a testament to the fact that you can be active at any age.”
Councillor Clare Maitland, East Ayrshire Council’s spokesperson for Health and Social Care, said: “This year’s Care Home Games has been yet another sterling success. I am so proud of each and every one of our care home residents who all come together with a positive and fun approach to getting involved. We must also mention our colleagues and partner organisations who rally round to create a truly supportive event.
“A hearty congratulations go to Glebe Care Home whose performance topped the leader board this year. However, at these games, I’m glad to say that everyone deservedly heads home with a gold medal, and a hero’s welcome from their friends and family!”