As the Olympic torch prepares to be extinguished, we reflect on the festivities at SALMON Health & Retirement that have revolved around this glorious event. The Olympics have always been more than just a global sports event; they are a celebration of unity, perseverance, and the human spirit. The games bring together athletes from around the world, transcending borders and cultures, to compete in the spirit of friendly competition. For many, including our residents and staff, the Olympics hold a special place in our hearts, sparking memories and creating new ones as we come together to celebrate.
The Olympics at SALMON
This year’s 2024 Summer Olympics provided a perfect backdrop for SALMON Health & Retirement to embrace these values, bringing together residents, staff, and families in a series of joyful and engaging activities. Across our campuses, we organized a variety of events that not only celebrated the games but also fostered a deep sense of community. From creating Olympic-themed shirts to hosting our own SALMON Olympics, the excitement was palpable.
Nic Estrela, Engagement Director at SALMON at Medway, captured the essence of this experience:
“The Olympics provides our residents an opportunity to challenge themselves and cheer for one another. It is such a powerful feeling of mutual respect, comradeship, and support that grows with each day. That’s why I like to honor it for 6 days. Whether it’s just a silly game for laughs or a focused competitive race, it is touching to see that resident who has been down on their luck, win a game as their partners cheer them on. Or another, who just lost a loved one and is able to forget their worries for a little while their friends yell out their name. Or that new resident who hesitantly walked through the halls before, who now feels surrounded by new friends and supporters. The week, for me, represents my whole philosophy in this work; That relationship always comes first. Relationship is what makes a building a community. Without it, there are just walls, but when you fill a building with laughs, love, common experience, and compassion, it’s amazing what can come of it. The Olympics just merely provides an extra vehicle to carry this philosophy for the week and makes an impact for weeks and months to come.”
Creating Special Moments
Our Olympic-inspired events included corn hole, archery, ax throwing, Jeopardy, and more. These activities allowed residents to engage in friendly competition and enjoy the beautiful summer weather together. The culmination of our celebrations was an award ceremony, where we honored our residents’ achievements, reminding us of their unique talents and contributions to our community.
The Olympics evoke nostalgia for many of our residents, bringing back cherished memories of past games and iconic moments. For some, it’s a reminder of family gatherings; for others, it’s about discovering new sports and admiring the dedication of athletes. At SALMON, we treasure these occasions, which bring warmth and a sense of home to our residents.
Kerry Paulhus, Director of Health & Fitness at The Willows at Westboro, also shared her fond memories and enthusiasm:
“As a young girl, I loved watching the Olympics and dreaming of being a Gold medal athlete. I wanted to give our residents that same sense of excitement and belonging. We hosted our very own Olympic ceremony replicating it as best we could even down to the releasing of the Doves (but we used paper butterflies), complete with the athletes’ oath, lighting of our Olympic cauldron by our torchbearer and joining together to sing the national anthem. Seeing the faces of our residents wide-eyed with big smiles was exactly what I was hoping for. At the close of the ceremony, many of our residents said they felt like they were at the real opening ceremony and felt a part of something special.”
Embracing the Olympic Spirit
As we celebrate the 2024 Summer Olympics, we are reminded of the values the games promote: excellence, friendship, and respect. At SALMON, we embody these values and foster a vibrant community where everyone can come together to celebrate and enjoy life.
The Olympics are more than a series of competitions; they are a testament to the human spirit and our capacity for greatness. Whether cheering for a favorite athlete or participating in our own Olympic-inspired events, the games bring us closer together, highlighting the power of unity and the joy of celebration.
As we watch the athletes compete and pursue their dreams, we are inspired to follow our own passions and cherish the moments we share with others. Here’s to the Olympics and the incredible stories they create, both on the global stage and in our own communities.
