UNITY - An egg-cellent time was had by all March 31 at Unity's Parkview Place. In their continued efforts to engage residents with all generations and the community, Unity’s Parkview Place held a creative Easter-themed event on March 31.
Unity Public School Pre-K class hopped over to the senior’s centre for a fun-filled Easter-inspired afternoon. Bunny bowling, Easter egg hunt and an Easter craft were all part of the afternoon which included little visitors from Unity Public School joining the residents in an egg-stravaganza.
The newly formed ‘Dinner Table Choir’ performed their rendition of ‘Peter Cotton Tail’ for everyone in attendance. The choir is made up of whichever residents are able to participate in the day, usually numbering 8-10 voices plus Louise Robson and Melissa Acton on piano.
Residents are happy to prepare for these events by helping decorate, create treat, and gift bags as well as welcome guests upon entry. It gives them an added sense of purpose and satisfaction to not only enjoy the activities event but to know they played a role in hosting it. Easter celebrations are a great way to get people out of their shells, and both residents and little people were happy to partner up for the festive fun.
Manager Paula Sittler said, “Having youth in the building really lifts spirits and the increased energy level is often felt for days before and after an event. While a full afternoon may be overwhelming for some, the beauty is that they can watch from a distance or get right in on the action, depending on how they feel that day.”
Sittler added to the festive fun offered in the afternoon's activity by dressing in an Easter Bunny costume and assisting with all aspects of the event. Her smile, enthusiasm and energy engages all participants young and old, and she even added in a few witty sidelines to crack people up. Children were all ears when listening to the Easter Bunny egg-citedly give instructions for the activities of the afternoon.
The children were especially excited with their invitation as not only did it embrace the spring time fun that Easter offers, but it was evident they felt like the residents were as excited to welcome them as the children were to attend. Both generations scrambled to partner up children with residents for the egg hunt and it was clear to see the smiles beaming from both young and old as the treasure hunt evolved.
The kitchen staff created some very special bunny treats for residents and guests following their afternoon activity.
“It is amazing how many family and friend connections there are between residents and community as most have lived here their entire lives,” adds Sittler.
Parkview Place continues to find creative ways to keep residents active in all avenues of wellness and have found inter-generational partnerships within the community are a great boost to their objectives. Young and old participants on March 31 certainly will have a tail to tell from their egg-stra special afternoon.
