There’s plenty of laughter and friendly rivalry when the Happy Chatters get together at Thornhill Manor retirement village – but for retired occupational therapist and resident Vicky Keenan, the games are about more than winning.
From tossing rings over an elephant’s trunk to launching small objects at a target, Vicky has created a collection of handmade games that get residents moving, thinking and, most importantly, having fun.
“The Monday morning occupational therapy group provides opportunities for residents to exercise their minds, work on movement and co-ordination, connect with friends and simply enjoy being part of something,” says Thornhill Manor social worker Karen Griessel, who explains that all the games have been handmade by Vicky.
Karen says the laughter from the village community centre can be heard in the offices, where the sounds of Happy Chatters have become a welcome part of Monday mornings.
