If you wander into Sunrise at Bluemont Park on a Sunday afternoon, you’ll likely hear it long before you see it—laughter, lively cheers, and a spirited back-and-forth between residents and two teens who have become honorary regulars.
Walker and Colby first arrived at this assisted living and memory care community earlier this fall, eager to launch their community service project: a fantasy football league for seniors where they teach residents to build virtual teams of real National Football League (NFL) players and track points each week.
How Fantasy Football Became a Favorite in This Senior Living Community
Since launching this senior living activity, they have created something much bigger—a weekly tradition that lights up the entire community. Fantasy football offers seniors mental stimulation, a socialization opportunity, and a fun way to connect with younger generations—all while enjoying America’s favorite sport.
All football season long, Walker and Colby pull out a whiteboard, covered with rushing yards, touchdowns, and weekend highlights. They sit with residents and team members to review plays, explain stats, and discuss which players to start.
Today, four residents manage their own fantasy teams, and several team members have joined the league, creating a lively community-wide tradition. Residents living with memory loss also take part, finding joy in the structure, conversation, and shared enthusiasm.
Why Seniors Love Fantasy Football and Weekly Watch Parties
When the Sunday football watch parties come around, up to ten residents huddle together to root for the Commanders—or whichever team the group picks for the day. Walker and Colby often return to host, keeping the excitement high. The joy in the room is unmistakable.
“I love having something fun to look forward to each week,” one resident shared. “It allows me to follow the games again like I used to.”
Another resident takes full advantage of the friendly competition: “I love trash talking the students and staff who participate. One of the staff members doesn’t know what she’s doing with her team, and we all have a good time laughing about it each week.”
As much fun as the football is, everyone agrees the heart of the program runs deeper. Residents say they feel connected—to the students, to each other, and to a hobby many never expected to love.
“I didn’t expect to enjoy it this much,” one resident admitted. “You hear the words ‘fantasy football,’ and it sounds a lot more complicated than it really is. The boys make it easy to understand and follow along each week.”
The students’ presence has become something special: steady, warm, and full of energy. Their patience and enthusiasm help residents learn something new—not just about football, but about embracing curiosity at any age.
“They bring so much energy into the building,” a resident said. “We really have a good time.”
The Power of Intergenerational Programs in Senior Living
Another resident reflected on why the intergenerational activity matters: “We learn from each other. They bring new ideas and perspectives each week and allow us to have important conversations.”
One more added: “Young people have so much energy that rubs off on us older people. I feel like that is super important for us.”
Perhaps the most powerful message comes from those who say the experience has changed their outlook altogether.
“This reminded me that you are never too old to try something new.”
In a season built around competition, strategy, and bragging rights, Walker and Colby have created something far more meaningful—a space where generations meet, learn, laugh, and cheer together.
At Sunrise at Bluemont Park, fantasy football isn’t just a game. It’s connection, community, and a reminder that the best traditions are the ones that bring people together.
If you want to learn more about engaging senior living programming—like fantasy football at Sunrise at Bluemont Park—across our communities, find a Sunrise senior living community near you to ask about their unique offerings.