Sunshine, classical music and the whack of mallets set the tone on August 25 as residents from Thembalami Care Centre and the Max Ordman Deaf Association (MODA) visited Thornhill Manor for a day of outdoor occupational therapy (OT) games designed to boost mobility and cognition while fostering connection.
The programme, which featured croquet and other fun games, was led by Thembalami occupational therapist Tsakani Shihlomule and her OT team, and Thornhill Manor’s resident OT guru, Vicky Keenan, a retired qualified occupational therapist who runs Thornhill Manor’s Happy Chatters OT group.
Over the course of the session, five games were managed in rotation to keep groups small, safe and engaged. Participants also enjoyed a spread of snacks between rounds.
“This was a truly joyful occasion,” said Karen Griessel, Thornhill Manor’s social worker. “It’s always special when former Thornhill residents who now live at Thembalami can come back to visit old friends.”
Organisers say the choice of activities was deliberate: Gentle, low-impact games that challenge co-ordination and balance while encouraging strategic thinking and focus. “Outdoor OT games play a vital role in enhancing older adults’ well-being,” Griessel says. “They support independence by improving mobility and preventing falls.
“The combination of fresh air, light activity and meaningful interaction is powerful,” Karen says “Days like this remind us that wellness is holistic.”
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