The 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia, just came to a close, having brought some of the world's greatest athletes together to compete and show off their talents. Closer to home, residents of Sunrise Senior Living communities across the U.S. and Canada got into the spirit, as well, and participated in their own Olympic games. Here's a look at how some of the communities shared in the event:
At home in the world
In Worthington, Ohio, Sunrise Senior Living residents took part in activities within their own community as well as the city. To kick off the opening ceremony, seniors partook in Olympic-themed crafts while watching the event.
"The residents enjoyed the opening ceremonies of the Olympics as we created torches," said Sunrise of Worthington's Terri Glimcher. "The torches were made of ice cream cones and cheese doodles. They loved making them and even loved eating them more!"
Additionally, seniors partook in World Passport 2014 - a multi-week event founded by Vice President of the Columbus School of Chinese, Chris Stellato, as a means of exploring the many diverse countries represented in Sochi. Participants were invited to "travel" around the globe and make predictions about the final medal count, keeping track of the actual results as they go. For instance, when they went to "Great Britain," Earl Grey tea and crumpets were served. Residents were also divided into sport groups and charted their journeys, making note of the events as they tried them.
Staying active
Residents at Sunrise of Richmond Hill in Ontario, Canada, enjoyed the games both as spectators and participants. In addition to screening the games in the activity room, a Feb. 17 Olympic Carnival let residents try their hand at some of the winter sports. Different stations included curling, hockey, Olympic trivia and completing a puzzle of Sochi. To keep with the celebratory mood, seniors were invited to enjoy brunch as well as a concert.
At Sunrise of Fair Oaks in Northern Virginia, seniors understood the conditions that athletes experienced in Russia - in fact, there was more snow there than in Sochi. Partnering with Legacy Health Care Services, they participated in a winter Olympics event that featured activities such as Wii Ski Jumping and a very competitive round of curling. Lisa McGary, Sunrise of Fair Oaks' Activities and Volunteer Coordinator, even entertained residents by clipping into her cross country skis and showing off her own version of the Olympic biathlon.