Residents in their eighties and nineties have been going for gold in their very own Winter Olympic Games - competing fiercely, celebrating loudly and proving that champions can be any age.
Friendly rivalry reached Olympic proportions at Meryton Place Care Home, as residents, staff, and families transformed the Bath Road home into a buzzing arena of competition, camaraderie and celebration.
Resident Rosemary Utidjian, aged 90, said: “I can’t believe it. I really didn’t expect to be up there on the podium.
“I just wanted to take part and enjoy myself, but once you get started, you want to win. It makes you feel proud, like you’ve achieved something special.”
From an Olympic curling challenge to sensory winter-themed activities - complete with a snowball fight - the home was alive with cheers and laughter, and had its very own winners’ podium.
Ninety-one-year-old Anne Jones clinched the top score of the day with Joyce Hill in second place, while third place was shared by Martin Christie, aged 82, and Rosemary.
Resident Mike Twohig praised the scale of the event, saying: “How wonderful the amount of work that’s gone into this event. It is better than an exercise class!”
Meryton Place Wellbeing and Lifestyle Coach Cheryl Woodward said the immersive, sensory elements helped make the Games feel authentic and engaging.
She added: “It was incredible to feel the textures of the clothing and the weight of the skiing equipment, it is heavy!
“Residents loved handling the old-style poles made from bamboo and leather. It sparked memories and conversations, and there was such a magical, nostalgic atmosphere. You could see how meaningful it was.”
Family and friends were invited to compete alongside residents, and the Meryton Place team also competed against their sister home, Lovell Place Care Home, in nearby Patchway. The teams enjoyed a closely fought Olympic curling contest. hhhh
