Whitby Hospital Celebrates Seniors' Week

A hospital room may be a lonely place for some older adults who may have limited connections to people outside the hospital.

So, to mark Seniors' Month in June, as well as Seniors' Week the first week of June, the Recreational Therapy team at the Whitby Hospital brought patients together and threw a pizza party. It’s an annual event and something that patients, including 75-year-old Patricia “Pat” Marges, enjoyed.

“The staff are so friendly here,” said Pat. “I really appreciate this celebration and all they do for us. I feel so special.”

More than 20 patients ate pizza, drank some punch, and listened to some classic tunes.

Jenn Otvos, Activities Consultant at Lakeridge Health, coordinated the Seniors' Week event and was thrilled with the turnout, noting the benefits of such an event.

“Every year, we commemorate Seniors' Week,” said Jenn. “It’s important to create opportunities for patients to meet new people. We really wanted to make them feel like the valuable people they are.”

Pat has received care at Whitby Hospital for the past five months. She says she likes to break up her day by adding ways she can remain active and meet other people in hospital.

“It’s important to get out of your room,” said Pat. “I try and leave my room every day I can.”

The annual event not only promotes wellness and social connections for older patients, but also enables staff to engage with patients and recognize the contributions of seniors in our Lakeridge Health community.