Viking Lions Club members Lawrence Newby and Dale Morrical visited Viking Extendicare on Wednesday, April 3, to see four new activity puzzle boards donated through funding from the Lions Club newly mounted on the walls of the facility.
The “Ageucation” activity puzzle boards each have three brain teasers on them, and there are four different boards in the facility.
Recreation Therapist Stephanie Driessen says the boards help residents with memory recall, social engagement, and more.
“It’s something they can do with their families on visits; it’s not scheduled, it’s always available to them.”
A few of the puzzle games on the boards include photographs, and these, she says, can induce reminiscing or bring out memories for residents, especially those who are struggling with dementia.
“It can help to keep them engaged, and help them remember. It’s like physiotherapy for the mind.”
The boards each come with 12 different activity sheets, and the plan is to change them each week, so residents have something fresh to see weekly.
Residents’ Council Chair Jeanice Davis says she thinks it’s psychologically good for residents.
“It helps people remember. It’s a very positive thing.”
Driessen says the Lions also recently assisted another Extendicare fundraiser, a paint night, where they bartended for free and helped raise almost $3,000.
She says that when she approached Newby about this project, he was enthusiastic.
“The Lions are always asking ‘How can we help?’ It’s wonderful to have this kind of support for our residents and their activities.”
Funds raised from the paint night event will go towards outings like bus tours and picnics, especially come late spring and summer.
The resident council will decide how the money is spent.
Leslie Cholowsky
Staff Reporter
