Seniors’ Week: Recognize and connect with seniors

By Sean Feagan, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Alberta is encouraging everyone to celebrate Seniors’ Week, and Strathmore and Wheatland County are following suit.

June 1 to 7 is Seniors’ Week in Alberta.

During the week, Albertans should look to ways to recognize and connect with seniors in innovative, fun and creative ways, while adhering to physical distancing restrictions, according to the provincial government.

Each year, the government selects a community or organization to co-host a provincial launch event. This year, the Seniors Outreach Program Society in Three Hills was chosen, but due to COVID-19, will co-host the launch event next year instead.

Wheatland County and Strathmore both voted to join the declaration, in independent motions during their council meetings on May 19 and 20, respectively.

Seniors are important to Wheatland County, said Reeve Amber Link. 

“Unfortunately, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, it will be difficult to host any celebratory gatherings,” said Link. “But we wish to convey to our seniors that they are valued (and) cherished, and we recognize the contributions that they have given us – and to future generations.

“Ensuring that our seniors have a safe and enjoyable place to live is a high priority, and council cherishes and celebrates what our seniors have done for our next generation.”

Wheatland Lodge has a busy week planned for Senior’s Week, said Christi Shworak, resident manager with Wheatland Housing Management Body.

On Monday, June 1, residents will enjoy a waffle, bacon and mimosa breakfast, providing fuel for afternoon bingo with prizes.

Tuesday will feature senior games tournaments, including cribbage, bocce ball, horseshoes and card games. There will also be chair yoga dance exercises with staff taking part. 

Wednesday will see nature walks around town and a scheduled out-of-town bus tour. Residents will then warm up with some coffee and Bailey’s paired with donuts from Rocky’s Bakery.

Thursday, residents will enjoy a barbecue lunch, followed by a resident and staff carnival. Originally the plan was to open the lodge to the community for this carnival day, as was done last year, but the plans were changed to meet current requirements.

The celebrations will be capped off on Friday by a cocktail event featuring Caesars and shrimp rings in the courtyard, followed by a movie with snacks for residents in the evening.