Judging by the huge smiles on faces, and cheers and laughter heard from an inpatient dining room at Providence Care Hospital, it’s clear that the Lakeview 2 Olympics have been an out-of-this-world hit so far.
Last week’s bowling game was particularly hilarious. Some patients played a friendly game of ‘Can we hit Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy Assistant John McKenzie with a (soft) bowling ball?!’
Each day, the Olympic Games are streamed on the Lakeview 2 dining room TV and at 3 p.m., patients, their families and staff on the unit gather to play a game. The games are specifically selected by Physiotherapist Julietta Zsofnyak to incorporate physical activity, cognitive stimulation, socialization and adaptability for all physical needs.
“Lakeview 2 has been very creative in ways to show compassion on the unit. Our physiotherapist, Julietta, brought forward this wonderful idea to combine community, physical activity, and the Olympics to create the Lakeview 2 Olympics”, says Jessica Almeida, Registered Nurse on the unit.
“It has been a team effort, and it is truly heartwarming to see everyone laugh together while also having some friendly competition. It has been really fun so far and we are continuing this daily until they [Olympic Games] are over on August 11,” she adds.
Patients on Lakeview 2 face a wide range of complex medical conditions, including those requiring long-term ventilation. A typical hospital stay may last a few months, which can often lead to feelings of isolation and detachment from their everyday lives.
Events such as the Lakeview 2 Olympics play a crucial role in bridging this gap. They offer patients a chance to connect with one another, engage in meaningful social interactions, and experience the joy of friendly competition. This not only boosts their spirits but also aids in their overall well-being and recovery. The sense of normalcy and community fosters an environment where patients can feel a renewed sense of purpose and belonging, which is vital for their mental health.
Jessica highlights that these activities also serve a dual purpose. The Lakeview 2 staff are committed to providing compassionate care, but they are also attentive to their own well-being. By integrating fun and interactive events like the Lakeview 2 Olympics, the unit strives to alleviate staff burnout and infuse their workday with moments of joy.
“Seeing the patients smile and enjoy themselves is a great reminder of why we entered this field. Allowing staff to participate in something so positive and give back to patients in a way outside their specialty has been incredibly rewarding for everyone. The staff on Lakeview 2 have dedicated so much heart, passion, and time. They truly love what they do, are exceptional at it, and are deeply committed to the well-being of their patients,” says Jessica.
Kudos to this incredible team for the amazing laughter, fun, and inclusivity they bring to all!
We can’t wait to see the continued fun and positive impact of the Olympic Games!
