AS Team GB racks up the medals at Tokyo, another team has also beencompeting for podium success, with residents living at Belong Warrington care village enjoying a bit of friendly competition at their very own Olympics.
The Belong Warrington 2021 games has a ‘London to Tokyo’ theme, designed by the village’s dedicated activities team and fitness instructor, specifically with older people and those living with dementia in-mind. Highlights include a village-wide step count, with the aim of walking between the two cities; ribbon curling, beanbag throwing and a ring toss; as well as arts and crafts and Japanese-themed dining. Over in the state-of-the-art gym, residents travel the world cycling, via a linked screen to specialist equipment.
Jade Shield, experience day support worker at Belong Warrington, said: “It’s been great fun hosting our own Olympics at the village. We’re currently awash with flags and decorations made by residents to support one another – it’s safe to say we’ve reached Olympic fever pitch!”
Getting into the spirit of the occasion has also proven to have reignited memories, with residents sharing anecdotes of personal sporting success in their youth and their favourite tales of Olympics from years gone by – with some even recalling London 1948, and the first international football tournament to be broadcast on British television.
Also joining in on the action, Belong colleagues supported residents in their own Olympic torch relay to kick-off the event, before later hosting the closing ceremony, featuring the awarding of medals, speeches and a village party.
Jade Shield added: “Residents have responded very positively to the event; the light exercise, crafts activities and camaraderie has kept everyone active and now it’s time to cheer on the athletes over in Tokyo.”
