More than 60 residents from East Ayrshire took centre stage at the Senior Care Home Games in Kilmarnock, competing across six sporting events. The annual event, now a regular success, champions the spirit and contribution of older generations to the community.
Event Details and Sports
Residents participated in archery, football, volleyball, boccia bowls, curling, and basketball. The event also featured entertainment from East Ayrshire Young Carers, who performed signing and dance routines. Depute Provost John McGhee presented winners with their medals.
Collaboration and Support
This year's games were a collaboration between East Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership’s Allied Health Professionals and Ayrshire 360. Support came from various local organisations, including Ayrshire College, Care Home Professional Support Team, The Killie Community, Scottish Archery, Kilmarnock Barebow Archery, East Ayrshire Advocacy Services, The NEST Wellbeing Group, East Ayrshire Council’s SL33, and Health and Social Care staff.
Health Benefits of Staying Active
Lianne McInally, Senior Manager of Allied Health Professionals at East Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership, said: "If we become less active and don’t move as much, there are several risks that we might encounter as we age. Inactivity can increase our rate of physical and cognitive decline, potentially leading to falls and stays in hospital, and having less independence or becoming socially isolated. We want everyone to enjoy being active, and our Care Home Games demonstrate the many ways you can continue to participate in activities, whether that’s an organised sport or accessing equipment, or thinking about ways to build gentle exercise or movement into our daily routines. The oldest resident who took part was aged 102 and a testament to the fact that you can be active at any age."
Community Recognition
Councillor Clare Maitland, East Ayrshire Council’s spokesperson for Health and Social Care, said: "This year’s Care Home Games has been yet another sterling success. I am so proud of each and every one of our care home residents who all come together with a positive and fun approach to getting involved. We must also mention our colleagues and partner organisations who rally round to create a truly supportive event. A hearty congratulations go to Glebe Care Home whose performance topped the leader board this year. However, at these games, I’m glad to say that everyone deservedly heads home with a gold medal, and a hero’s welcome from their friends and family!"
