Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center Residents Bring Home the Gold at Suffolk County Golden Games

Eleven residents at Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center participated in the Suffolk County Golden Games held recently at the Patchogue YMCA.  Competing in modified sporting events against eight other nursing homes across Suffolk County, Gurwin residents – aged 62 to 90 – brought home the gold in volleyball, bowling and women’s distance throw.

Gurwin residents have competed in the annual sports competition since its inception in 1989, when they were started by Karen Nash, CTRS, former director of Therapeutic Recreation at Gurwin.   The multi-sport event kicks-off with an Olympic-style opening ceremony, complete with torch bearers and salute to the American flag, followed by a day-long schedule of various sporting events.   The Games challenge seniors residing at nursing home facilities to develop their physical and socialization skills in a healthy, lighthearted and friendly competitive environment.

“The Golden Games are rich in the spirit of camaraderie, friendship and fun,” says Dawn Lettau, CTRS, Gurwin’s Director of Therapeutic Recreation.  “Our residents practice for months prior to the Games, honing their athletic skills and developing friendships among their teammates.  These annual games enable former athletes to maintain their lifelong interests and relive their glory days; for others, it is an opportunity to develop new skills and work towards a common goal.  Our residents take pride in doing their personal best and working together as a team.”

Gurwin resident Patricia Davidson, a perennial medal winner at the Games and this year’s recipient of the gold medal for women’s distance throw, proudly displays her collection of medals in her room at Gurwin.  “I look forward to the Golden Games each year,” she said.  “I enjoy practicing for the events and always try to perform at my best.  It is an exciting day for all of us, and bringing home a medal is the icing on the cake!”