Are you ready for the Olympic Games?

Opening Ceremony Watch Party

The Opening Ceremony of the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris will take place on Friday, July 26, at 8:24 PM local time. Now, for those of us in Australia, this means tuning in at 4:24 AM AEST on Saturday, July 27 or two hours earlier for our friends in the west, and half an hour earlier for our friends in South Australia.

Not exactly ‘prime time’ viewing.

Don’t fear though, because the host broadcaster, the Nine Network in Australia, generally replays the Opening Ceremony, so you can do something at a more civilised time of day! (And with streaming the way it is, you can always check the 9Now app, and set the time to replay it for your residents.

Broadcast the games in the community centre

Having the Olympic Games broadcasted in the community centre can be a great way to bring everyone together.

Simply having the television on and setting up a cozy viewing area can attract the most unlikely of viewers. I’ve seen this simple of set up bring residents out of their homes and into the community centre where they will sit, watch and talk with anyone and everyone who comes by.

You will find this becomes a great conversation starter because just about everyone has an Olympic Games story to share.

Remember to consult with Dr Google so you can call out when key events are going to be on in your newsletter. Popular events are swimming, track and field – and basically anything Australia is likely to medal in. (So, more swimming and less track and field.)

Medal Tally Tipping Comp

A medal tally tipping competition is a simple way to get everyone involved in the Olympic action. Just like the yearly Footy Tipping Comp for instance, residents can predict the number of gold, silver and bronze Australia will win, who will win the most medals (and how many). For a more challenging tipping comp, see if someone can tip the top 5 or top 10 countries by medals won.

You’ll need to update the medal tally daily on your notice board (and date stamp as being ‘current as of’) and just like your Footy Tipping comp, this activity not only keeps everyone engaged with the events but also sparks lively discussions and friendly rivalries.

Arm chair travel

Do you have a resident who has been to France? Or perhaps you have a good relationship with the local travel agent? Why not host an Arm Chair Travel session for residents and explore France from the comfort of the Community Centre?

With a little bit of coordination, a lap top, and a good story teller, this can be a great afternoon – and one you could match up with some local food. Speaking of which.

Themed dinner

Monthly dinners are a staple of the monthly activity calendar for most retirement villages.

Have you or the Social Committee considered adding a French Theme? Have residents prepare dishes that speak to the host nation of the games and, to add an extra layer, pair the food with some French wines!

Village Olympic Games

Now, this one takes a little bit of coordination, and buy in from the residents.

Hosting a Village Olympics can be the highlight of the two-week period. Create a series of events that cater to different interests and abilities, from scooter racing to bowls competitions. (Note, the WHS advisors will not recommend the scooter racing, and rightly so.)

These events can be adapted to ensure inclusivity and safety for all participants. Not only does this encourage physical activity, but it also fosters camaraderie and a sense of achievement among residents.

And finally, The Closing Ceremony Watch Party

Once again the Closing Ceremony is at the early time of 4AM AEST on Monday 12 August. Remember, just like the Opening Ceremony, this means it will likely be replayed at a more friendly time of day.

The Olympic Games serve as a perfect backdrop for fostering belonging and camaraderie, by ensuring that these two weeks are filled with laughter, nostalgia, and good times. By embracing the Olympic spirit, we can create lasting memories and a vibrant community for residents, staff and guests.