As you age, it's the simple pleasures, like enjoying a nice day outside, that add to your quality of life. That's why Cochrane's Bethany Care Centre is inviting everyone to its fall fair to raise money for an outdoor patio area at the centre.
As you age, it's the simple pleasures, like enjoying a nice day outside, that add to your quality of life.
That's why Cochrane's Bethany Care Centre is inviting everyone to its fall fair to raise money for an outdoor patio area at the centre.
“It means a lot to them, ” said Sharon Guthrie, with the Bethany Cochrane Family Council. “It's just nice to get some fresh air. ”
Guthrie said that many of the residents had gardens or farmed in their younger years. “This provides a better opportunity to get them out there to sit and enjoy the outside. ”
On Sept. 12 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. there will be a host of activities for people to take part in. If your kids have energy to burn, there's not one but two bouncy castles to choose from. Lawn archery, barbecue, bake sale and a silent auction will also take place. A fun van will be on hand for added entertainment.
The fair is part of the centre's 2015 fundraising initiative to build an outdoor patio to the tune of $75,000 over the course of two years. The patio, if built, would include landscaped walkways, no-maintenance tables, chairs and benches, remote awnings for sun protection and a pergola with windscreens. The space will be fully wheelchair accessible for residents with mobility issues.
Guthrie said that currently seniors have outdoor spaces with limited and or ‘uninviting' features, such as the centre's dementia wing garden. She said through research on dementia, it was determined that sidewalks should be circular rather than a straight path with a beginning and end for people living with the disorder. Last year's fundraising initiative allowed the centre to purchase four “blanket warmers, ” which Guthrie said have seen ample use.
Tickets are $1 for entry and will again be sold at the gate. Additional tickets can be purchased for food and drinks, and for the other activities.
Items donated by individuals or businesses for the silent auction can be dropped off during Bethany Care Centre's business hours or other arrangements can be made through Maureen Vink at 403-863-2259.
