KNIT one, purl two. That may be an activity thought of when talking about aged care accommodation.

But at Doutta Galla’s Howard Kingham residence in Braybrook it’s claps and cheers as golf, tennis and a host of other sports invite fierce competition.

There are no courts and no rackets, but the games are just as much fun and are keeping residents fit and active while inciting a little healthy competition.

CEO Mark Anderson said the introduction of an electronic gaming console had been a hit and though it was probably not what creators had in mind, the Nintendo Wii system was providing entertainment and interaction for residents across eight Doutta Galla facilities.

“From a young age, we learn to love sport; imagine not being able to play the sports you have always enjoyed because age is working against you,” Mr Anderson said.

“With Nintendo Wii our residents are enjoying sport once again; it keeps the mind active, brings people together and it’s very competitive!”

Residents from the Howard Kingham house visited Doutta Galla’s West Sunshine residence last week for a little inter-residence competition and the cheers and applause were reminiscent of any mainstream sporting venue.

The Wii system was initially introduced to Doutta Galla residents to add a new dimension of fun to the activities programs, but activities manager Antoinette Doran, said it was having a positive effect on the wellbeing of the residents.

“This is what Roger Federer and Tiger Woods will be doing in 40 years’ time, for sure!” she said.



Picture: ANITAFRANK.