Bring the big energy of the big game to your aged care home.
From AFL to Rugby Union or League (Wallabies v The All Blacks anyone?), cricket, soccer, not to mention the Australian Open and Formula 1, Australia and New Zealand are nations of sports fans (and friendly rivals) who love to share the excitement of a big game with friends and family.
Though sporting finals are always especially exciting, it is not all about who wins in the end. Research shows coming together to watch a match can support emotional well-being and connection because of the social relevance and shared experience. For aged care residents, a lifetime of following a favourite team need not end when they can no longer attend live sporting events. A big screen for televised games is all that is required.
With this in mind, why not plan a sports-themed afternoon for your residents. We have some decoration and food ideas to turn a match into an event at your aged care home:
Set the scene for the sports day
A “Game Day” event captures the energy of a big match in a way that is comfortable and inclusive. You may have local club fans, or international residents who wish to support their country of origin. Encourage your residents to pick a team, but remind them to keep their rivalry friendly!
When you bring everyone together to watch a game or final, invite residents and staff to wear team or flag colours. A scarf will do, or a beanie or jersey if they have one to hand.
Set up a dedicated viewing space with a large screen or projector where possible. Arrange seating so that all residents can see clearly and feel comfortable. Good visibility will help everyone enjoy the experience.
Depending on your aged care home, you may also wish to invite family and friends to watch alongside your residents. A crowd is always helpful to bring a sense of excitement.
Simple ways to build atmosphere
Decorate your viewing space in team or country colours with banners and balloons, and set up a scoreboard so people can keep track without squinting at small numbers on the screen. Your residents may wish to hold pom poms or flags, which can usually be ordered from Spotlight or Amazon.
Add bright napkins and tablecloths to highlight the sense of occasion, and if you have a sound system or music player, create a playlist of anthems or team songs.
Half-time is an opportunity for some additional light entertainment - and of course some delicious snacks to energise everyone for the second half of the game.
Game day food made easy
Food is a game-changer on game day. Offering easy-to-eat snacks and treats will help residents feel a greater sense of occasion.
Burgers
Traditional burgers are an iconic game day food offered by pubs and sports clubs around the country, especially during the footy season. Easy to prepare and filled with flavour, your residents will love our footy pub burgers.
Finger Food
Other finger food menu ideas include:
- Lamb Korma Sausage Rolls: served warm with tomato sauce: the ideal nod to Australia’s sporting culture
- Mini Beef Pizzas: a hearty and satisfying finger food
- Chip Butty: you can’t get more Game Day than a chip butty!!
- Parmigiana Meat Balls in Pitta bread: simple to portion and serve
Adding different sauces and flavours can make these sporty dishes more interesting, although as sports fan favourites, they will be appreciated by all your residents when served in a traditional style as well.
Creating a shared experience
Win, lose, or draw, sport brings people together and evokes happy memories by reminding them of home.
Hosting a Game Day event or big match viewing in a common area is an easy way to give residents and their families something to look forward to, enjoy on the day and talk about afterwards. The best thing is the decorations and food don’t have to be complicated for everyone to have a great afternoon.
Disclaimer: The content of this article is created for inspiration purposes only. It is not intended as clinical, medical or nutritional advice.
