SUPPLEMENT TO THE FREE PRESS | SATURDAY, APRIL 29, 2023 Active Aging SPRING 2023
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Thorvaldson Care Center is a government approved, family owned and operated Intermediate Care facility providing care to seniors since 1959. We offer a moderately sized, non-institutional environment with professional services to meet the needs of those in the later stages of life. ‘Intermediate’ personal care is provided to those who are no longer able to manage/ cope in their current living situation due to increasing needs, yet are not quite ready for placement in a Personal Care Home. Thorvaldson Care Center is the only Intermediate Care facility in Manitoba.
What does Intermediate Personal Care offer? • 24 hour care / supervision by Health Care Aides • Registered Nurse on-site (weekdays) • Medications, inhalers, eyedrops are administered • Monitored blood sugar / blood pressure • Bloodwork, Xray services
Thorvaldson Care Center An Intermediate Care Facility for Seniors 495 Stradbrook Ave. • Winnipeg Please call for more information or to arrange a tour Jocelyn Thorvaldson (204) 452-4044 (weekdays) www.thorcare.ca E-mail: thorcare@shaw.ca Over 60 years of caring for Seniors!
• Medical appts / transportation arranged • Assist with bathing, dressing and hygiene • Assist with catheters / oxygen • Private, bedsitting room with bathroom • Two nurse call buttons in each suite
• Three home-cooked meals per day plus snacks • Housekeeping (daily), Laundry (personal and linens) • Accredited Activity Director & Recreation Programs
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2023 Manitoba 55+ Games Mark 40-year Milestone BY JENNIFER MCFEE T he Manitoba 55+ Games are marking a 40-year milestone — and they’re
“Part of the purpose is to bring people together, be inclusive and promote the benefits of being physically active,” she adds. “We know that many older adults were socially isolated prior to and during the height of the pandemic, so the Games offer a chance to reconnect with old friends and make new friends.” The Games couldn’t happen without all the dedicated volunteers, who view serving as their way to give back to and support their local community, she adds. “Some people travel around the province to volunteer at different Games. It’s a great opportunity to reunite with friends they might not have seen for a while,” she says. “Spectators can come out and watch a variety of activities throughout the day — and they’ve got three days to do it so there’s lots of chances to cheer on the participants.” A new online registration system is now open for participants to sign up for events and pay registration fees. To register, visit www.activeagingmb.ca and click on “Events” in the top menu bar. Then click on “55+ Games Registration” to complete the registration page and pay the fee. The registration deadline is May 12.
still going strong. Started by the Manitoba Society of Seniors in 1983, the games have since travelled to all corners of the province. Host communities have included Steinbach, Arborg, Morris, Neepawa, Beausejour, Brandon, Killarney, Glenboro and Swan River, to name a few. Since 2012 Active Aging in Manitoba (AAIM) – formerly known as ALCOA- MB – has been coordinating the annual Games through partnerships with the provincial 55+ Games committee and the host committee as a celebration of healthy living. The popularity of the event is clear to see since the provincial games event has grown to more than 1,600 participants from 365 participants in its early years. This year, Portage la Prairie will be the host community for the next set of Manitoba 55+ Games from June 20 to 23, says event coordinator Karyn Heidrick. “As you can imagine, hosting 1,000-plus participants competing in 20-plus events while enlisting hundreds of volunteers is no easy task,” she says. Not only will the in-person Games be held, but there will also be a virtual version, as well. “After the Games in Portage la Prairie,
Golf is one of the most popular sports at the Games every year. (Courtesy of Active Aging in Manitoba)
a month-long virtual games event will take place from June 23 to July 21 for anyone interested in continued participation. It allows for greater reach, inclusion and bonus motivation to move.” In celebration of this milestone year, Heidrick says they’ll be hosting a few fun contests leading up to the games, including one each Tuesday on AAIM’s Facebook page, with prizes up for grabs. “Participants can also send a favourite Games story or photo about an event, a new friend or perhaps a new favourite activity that we can share on our social media and website,” she says. Submissions can be sent by email to manitoba55plusgames@gmail.com or by mail to 1075 Leila Ave., Winnipeg, MB, R2P 2W7 for a chance to win prizes.
“Portage la Prairie will also be planning some local special surprises for this year,” Heidrick adds, “But you will have to be at the games in June to find out what they are.” Linda Brown, AAIM’s executive director, says the purpose of the games is to bring Manitobans together in the spirit of being active. “The games started originally with the idea to show people they could be active at any age. Part of our mission at Active Aging in Manitoba is to provide opportunities for older Manitobans to be active,” Brown says. “It’s very significant that we’ve managed to hold the games around the province for 40 years.” Whether you’re a participant, volunteer or spectator, there’s something for you.
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SATURDAY, APRIL 29, 2023 | ACTIVE AGING WEEK 3
Portage Ready to Host 2023 Games
BY JENNIFER MCFEE P ortage la Prairie is rolling out the welcome mat as the host community for the 2023 Manitoba 55+ Games. Located about 75 kilometres west of Winnipeg, the community offers something for everyone, making it an ideal area to host the popular Games. Tara Pettinger, executive director of the Portage District General Hospital Foundation, and Angie Shindle, general manager of the Portage Regional Recreation Authority, are serving as co-chairs of this year’s Games. Pettinger is looking forward to the ways that the Manitoba 55+ Games will bolster the community while also creating a memorable experience for those who visit Portage. “This is a great opportunity to promote wellness in our community,” she says. “Portage la Prairie has so much to offer, and, by hosting, we are inviting all the participants and spectators to our community to showcase everything Portage la Prairie is about.” The much-anticipated event stands out as an important occasion to the community for a multitude of reasons, she adds. “Hosting these Games gives local individuals a chance to participate or volunteer. It’s also a great way for our local businesses to get involved and advertise to people throughout the province,” Pettinger says. “Events will be hosted at various venues throughout the community, which gives lots of different community groups a chance to be involved.” Similarly, Shindle notes that the Manitoba 55+ Games will help to bolster the local economy. “Hosting a large-scale event like the 55+ Games can bring in a significant amount of revenue for local businesses such as hotels, restaurants and shops,” Shindle says. “We can showcase the communities’ facilities, amenities and attractions to visitors
from around the province. In addition, the Games promote healthy living and the positive impact that participating can bring.” Likewise, Shindle shares similar excitement for Portage la Prairie as the host community for the upcoming event. “The Games will boost the local economy, increase community spirit and bring people from different backgrounds,” she says. “They’ll also bring communities together and promote active lifestyles.” Adding to the excitement, this year marks the 40th anniversary of the Manitoba 55+ Games. “We will be using ruby red as our main colour to highlight the 40th anniversary,” Pettinger says. “We have a spectacular entertainment lineup for the variety night and the banquet.” In addition to enjoying the Games as participants, spectators or volunteers, visitors to Portage la Prairie can look forward to exploring all the sites and attractions in town and nearby. These attractions include Fort la Reine Museum, which celebrates the heritage and history of the area; Splash Island outdoor water park is another popular destination for families. Portage la Prairie’s eye-catching roadside attractions also include the world’s largest Coca-Cola can, and Canada’s largest great grey owl statue. Nearby, visitors can relax in the great outdoors at Delta Beach, Delta Marsh, and St. Ambroise Beach Provincial Park. For visitors, accommodation options include a selection of hotels, campgrounds and more. “We encourage everyone to come out to Portage la Prairie to take in some of the amazing events that will be going on throughout the community,” Pettinger says. “While you’re here, you can visit some local shops, enjoy a meal at one of our great restaurants and go for a stroll on our scenic walking paths.”
Games participants always give it their all no matter what sport or activity they’re competing in. (Courtesy of Active Aging in Manitoba)
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BY JIM BENDER K aryn Heidrick is excited that Active Aging in Manitoba (AAIM) will finally be able to celebrate the fourtieth Manitoba 55+ Games this year. “It’s a big celebration for us,” says the Games Coordinator. “Due to the pandemic, we were unable to hold the Games in 2020 and 2021, so we bounced back with the virtual Games. Holding the Games virtually allowed participants from more than 45 communities to participate and keep active. So it’s great to finally be able to say that we’ve reached our fourtieth year.”
Things to Know Before You Go
It’s important to do what you can to prepare your body before competing in any sport. (Courtesy of Active Aging in Manitoba)
Three nutritious meals a day Complimentary 24 hour Bistro In suite laundry Fitness centre Craft and games area Complimentary internet access room Dry cleaning pickup and delivery Building staffed 24/7 24 Hour emergency response pendant Weekly in-suite light housekeeping services Weekly linen and towel services Complimentary transportation to medical appointments and outings Heat, hydro, and water Pet Friendly Living
Call today to book a tour. 204.231.5777 40 Dunkirk Drive
SATURDAY, APRIL 29, 2023 | ACTIVE AGING WEEK 5
Last year, the Games returned from the pandemic when Selkirk hosted the thirty- ninth event. This year, the largest provincial multi-sport event for older adults in the province will be held in Portage la Prairie, June 2022. More than 1,000 people are expected to compete in over 20 events, ranging from cribbage and arts and crafts to pickleball and slo-pitch. The Games are open to any Manitoban 55 and over, including anyone who turns 55 this year. Heidrick says many participants make a point of participating in the Games every year - for the competition, and the camaraderie that's long been the Games' calling card. “Our participants enjoy travelling Manitoba to experience different cultures,” she says. “It’s not just the physical benefits that come with the Games. There are many elements to enjoy at this age-friendly event.” But to truly enjoy the Games, participants must avoid injuries. That means to prepare in advance for competition - particularly for events that are more physically demanding.
“Well before the Games, engage a therapist to talk about any lingering, nagging aches and pains you might have, and what can be done about them now,” says athletic therapist Robyn Edge. “They will establish a routine that’s individualized, specific and tailored to the person, and tailored to whatever their activity participation choices are going to be.” One aspect of preparation involves participants pretending to throw bowling balls or mimic golf swings beforehand - and keep doing it right up until the event starts. Edge also emphasizes getting enough hydration and proper sleep before exerting yourself in the heat of competition. “It’s always beneficial to have adequate nutrition, adequate hydration – having that well before the event occurs is always best for the system,” she says. “So, you’re coming from a state of readiness in a surplus of nutrition, in a surplus of sleep, and surplus of hydration." Why is good nutrition, proper and adequate hydration so important? "Having those things in place will
enable you to draw from those stores when you’re actually competing in the event. More immediately before the event, you’re looking at continuing on with hydration and proper nutrition.” But, how should someone expect to feel after competing for the first time in a year with no prep? “Hopefully, proud of themselves for doing it,” Edge says. “It’s very realistic for the body to send a lot of communication saying, ‘Hey, you just used a lot of parts in ways that you haven’t in a while.’ Not all communication from the body to the brain is bad. What’s bad is if it lingers in a way that impedes your ability to function to do different things.” Everyone can expect to be at least somewhat sore and fatigued after competing physically, she adds. “My recommendation to people is to gently and lightly move as much as possible right after the event,” Edge says. “Heat can be quite comfortable to help fluids circulate and help that recovery process happen." She adds there are other treatment options that will speed up recovery. "Sometimes, compression therapy –
assuming that’s okay for an individual to do – is also very beneficial. The more movement that you can work through even though you're stiff, the better off you’re going to be. The stiffness will leave your body faster." Anyone interested in taking part in the Manitoba 55+ Games can now register with ease. AAIM has created a new online registration to make it easier to register for whatever events a participant wishes to enter and make a payment to be automatically registered. Visit www.activeagingmb.ca. Click on Events in the top menu bar, then click on 55+ Games Registration. Fill out the prompts, then pay. The cost is $40 for the first event, then $15 for any other one. Some events, such as golf, will have additional fees to cover green fees, etc. Teams must register as a group. The website also lists where each event will be held and when. Registration opened on March 20 and closes May 12. Participants book their own accommodations.
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Participants attend the Games year after year for both the competition and camaraderie. (Courtesy of Active Aging in Manitoba)
A Personal Story LOVE OF THE GAMES:
He was also involved in planning as a past president and regional representative of the Manitoba 55+ Games. Savage has many fond memories of travelling, homestays in host communities, hosting visiting athletes and even representing Manitoba nationally at the Canada 55+ Games. “Seniors are seniors no matter where they are. They want to keep active and do things like this,” he says. “It keeps you active and doing something. That's what the Games are for, to keep you involved.” Staying active helps those over 55 stay young mentally and physically, says Savage. “When your mind is thinking about activities, you don't have to worry about your age and your abilities. Continue to participate, because as long as you're doing it, you stay active; if you're active, you will live longer. And you also make a lot of friends all over the province.” Savage and other long-term participants bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the Games. They’re eager to share with others, inspiring continued involvement and creating a supportive community. “It's a chance to connect to our community through an event that brings excitement and friendship and inspires healthy living in a fun environment,” says Heidrick. “The fact that so many people are long-term participants speaks to the value it brings to those who participate.” The longevity of the program and the
high number of participants reflect the Games’ ability to adapt and evolve to meet the changing needs and interests of its participants. Floor curling is a prime example. “When it first came to the Games, it was throwing stones by hand on the waxed floor,” Savage recalls. “As people got older, they wanted to do it, but couldn't get down to throw it.” Those circumstances led to changes that would allow older participants to continue to compete. “We developed a stick that they could use for curling that can be extended to reach the length you need,” he says. “Before, you had to get down on your knees, and it evolved to include these people by giving them cues to use. They even have cues for five-pin bowling now.” Heidrick says adding virtual activities, where folks can participate from wherever they are and track their progress online, increases inclusion. People take part through an activity tracking calendar and can submit stories and photos and share their accomplishments. So, choose to experience the Manitoba 55+ games this summer. Come as a spectator, join the 200-plus volunteers, or sign up to participate as an individual or part of a team.
BY KRISTIN MARAND O ver three days each summer, between 900 and 1000 older adults from across the province gather to partake in more than 20 events at the Manitoba 55+ Games. The events combine social activity, entertainment, and exercise, providing a fun and enriching experience for spectators, volunteers, and participants. This year, the Games run in-person from June 20-22nd in Portage la Prairie and virtually from June 23rd to July 21st. “The Games provide a unique opportunity to stay active, engaged, and socially connected,” says event
coordinator Karyn Heidrick. “The Games offer a wide range of physical activities and sports that cater to different skill levels and interests, allowing participants to challenge themselves and try new things.” They also provide something else, she adds. “They promote community and camaraderie among participants. The Games foster friendships and social connections that can be especially important for older adults at risk of social isolation.” Vic Savage has been involved with the Games since he retired in 1996. He first participated in curling and five- pin bowling and took on more activities over the years, including carpet bowling, floor shuffleboard and arts and crafts.
For more information, visit activeagingmb.ca/55plusgames/
SATURDAY, APRIL 29, 2023 | ACTIVE AGING WEEK 7
MANITOBA LIQUOR & LOTTERIES CELEBRATES 15 YEARS AS PRESENTING SPONSOR As popular as the 55+ Games are, they wouldn’t happen without the support of generous sponsors.
BY TODD LEWYS T his year, the Manitoba 55+ Games is celebrating its 40th anniversary! At the same time, Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries is celebrating its 15th year of being the Games’ presenting sponsor, this year under the banner of PlayNow. It’s a long-time affiliation that the Crown corporation is proud of, says Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries president & CEO, Gerry Sul. “We’re extremely proud to have been sponsoring the Manitoba 55+ Games since 2008,” he says. “The Games are an important annual event in Manitoba’s summer schedule, and Liquor & Lotteries is pleased that we can continue to play an important role in contributing to its ongoing success.” Sponsoring events like the Manitoba 55+ Games is just part of Liquor & Lotteries’ overall commitment to
community involvement. For decades, the corporation has supported a wide range of charitable, non-profit and community groups in a meaningful way, from festival and event sponsorships to generous donations. The goal, notes Sul, is to add lasting value to the lives of Manitobans by doing what they can to promote quality of life in Manitoba. “Through support of the arts, sport, culture, community, health, social causes, sustainability, diversity and inclusion, we try to do what we can to assist various organizations in making a positive impact on the lives of Manitobans,” he says. Suffice it to say, the Manitoba 55+ Games fit perfectly with Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries. “The Manitoba 55+ Games align well with our core purpose to enrich the lives of Manitobans,” says Sul. “Each year, the Games draw hundreds of customers to our many business partners in the
host community, which this June will contribute to tourism, entertainment, and hospitality in Portage la Prairie.” Linda Brown, executive director of Active Aging in Manitoba, the organization that has partnered with communities around the province to put on the Manitoba 55+ Games for 40 years and counting, says that Liquor & Lotteries’ support is invaluable. “Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries has been a backbone sponsor of the Manitoba 55+ Games for some time, and also helped support the Virtual Games during the pandemic,” she says. “The Manitoba 55+ Games would not happen without the support of Manitoba Liquors & Lotteries and our other sponsors.” Sul says it has been a privilege to support the Games. “We believe in giving back to the communities in which we live and work,” he adds. “Our goal is to enrich the lives of Manitobans by making the greatest possible contribution to the economic
and social well-being of our province. We are proud to support hundreds of communities, non-profit, and charitable organizations each year.” Sul also notes that the Manitoba 55+ Games creates an exciting opportunity for the host to highlight their community and volunteer spirit while welcoming the hundreds of athletes and their supporters to town. “We have enjoyed supporting the Games, where you can often see all ages coming out to cheer on and celebrate their favourite athlete, whether it’s a parent, grandparent, sibling, friend, or neighbour.” This year, PlayNow will be front and center as the Games main sponsor. “We’re thrilled that PlayNow is the presenting sponsor for an event that encourages older adults to participate in a physically and socially active lifestyle that benefits their overall health and longevity,” he says.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!
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Active Aging WEEK OCTOBER 2–8, 2023 Watch for the 2023 Active Aging Week supplement in the Free Press on Saturday, September 16
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