‘Ajax Square Gardens,’ Lakeridge Gardens' New Sports Lounge is a WIN for Residents

As a child, Susanne Olesinski fondly remembers cheering on Team Canada from her couch while watching the World Junior Ice Hockey Championships with her dad, Dennis, who is now a resident at Lakeridge Gardens.  

“I think watching hockey is something many Canadians grow up with,” said Susanne. “I remember we were a hockey house growing up and my dad was the biggest fan of Team Canada.” 

And as Team Canada took on Sweden in the recent World Junior Championships, residents at Lakeridge Gardens hosted their first “watch” party at the home’s new sports lounge. Residents aptly named their new space, ‘Ajax Square Gardens,’ an homage to the famed Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto.  

Residents cheered, socialized, and collectively groaned when Sweden scored. A true sports atmosphere took hold.   

“It’s absolutely incredible,” said Susanne. “My dad is a huge sports fan, and it’s so special to be able to watch a game with him at his home. I know he’ll be in ‘Ajax Square Gardens’ a lot, getting much use and enjoyment out of this space.” 

The ‘Ajax Square Gardens’ sports lounge is located on the ground floor of Lakeridge Gardens. It was funded by donations through the Ajax Pickering Hospital Foundation and the Ajax Mayor’s Gala. In December, Mayor of Ajax Shaun Collier and Ajax Mayor’s Gala Chair Rose Collier helped to officially open ‘Ajax Square Gardens.’  

For other residents, like David Pryde, the welcoming space adds so much joy and comfort that he believes other long-term care homes should adopt the idea.   

“I’ve watched the World Juniors every year since they began,” remembers David. “To be able to watch the game with other residents, in this space, is amazing. I think every long-term care home should have a space like this.” 

Residents not only named the lounge but were also involved in every step of creating the space: from its conception, to design, to decor. Among the lounge’s features are a big screen television ergonomic seating, adjustable height tables, and a wide entryway for residents who use mobility devices. 

“It’s really great to have this resident-run space,” explained Allie Eagleson, therapeutic recreation assistant. “The adjustable height tables are great for the home’s residents because whether they are using wheelchairs or other mobility devices, they are able to sit comfortably at the tables and enjoy the festivities.” 

Though Team Canada lost a tough game to Sweden that day, residents and their families believe they have won big with the addition of ‘Ajax Square Gardens’ to their home – a space to enjoy many more games and championships with fellow residents and visiting family members for years to come.