Efforts to encourage an active lifestyle among seniors never cease at B.C.’s largest campus of care.
On July 26, Menno Place in Abbotsford celebrated the grand opening of its 9-hole putting green and lawn bowling alley—the newest addition to its 11-acre grounds.
Excited long-time golfers David Klassen, 100, and Bernie Koop, 93, were the first to tee off on the new course, after which 30 seniors and their families played a 9-hole round.
The putting green offers more than just a way for the retirement home’s 700 seniors to unwind and socialize. A growing body of research shows an active lifestyle can lower the incidence of dementia and cognitive impairment among seniors, and improve overall health.
The staff at Menno Place understands the value of therapeutic recreation for seniors, and is always on the lookout for new ways to get residents moving.
CEO Karen Baillie—who also serves as BCCPA Board President—said she was thrilled about the new recreational facilities, and grateful to generous donors that made it possible.
Baillie said the goal at Menno Place is to support seniors with quality of life as they age in place.
“The putting green and lawn bowling alley are another way that seniors can get out, socialize and exercise! This makes it possible for all ages to have fun together—and that brings another vitality to seniors as families and friends of all ages enjoy spending time together!”
The putting green and lawn bowling alley also offer seniors other opportunities—playing with their grandchildren or organized golf tournaments—that contribute to the vitality of the retirement home.
With such initiatives, Menno Place continues to improve quality of life for seniors while inspiring others to follow its lead.
