A Game or Two

Note: This story was submitted on behalf of the original storyteller, with their permission.

I have always enjoyed working with older adults. I studied Social Services-Gerontology and worked as a Recreation Therapist in the past. When the opportunity arose to work as an RCA I thought it would be a good fit. My favourite type of programming is definitely 1:1 visits. I enjoy being able to connect with residents who for many different reasons choose not to participate in group programs. Early on in my role as RCA I began visiting with a resident who did not attend programs, and sometimes would only venture out of her room for meals. At first, we talked about family, her children and mine, her young childhood, her life with her husband traveling, her love of golf and cooler weather. Later on during our visits, she mentioned her love of Yahtzee and how she had brought it with her, but it was tucked away in a drawer. I offered to play, and that set in motion a new routine that we both looked forward to. I would visit this resident throughout the week and despite her eyesight being poor she would recognize my voice and shape in her doorway and brightly ask "if I had time for a game or two?". I would set-up the game and we would roll the dice; smiling, laughing, talking, and busting the boredom she mentioned she experienced throughout the sometimes long days. Our visits and games have become a much loved part of my routine and something I really do look forward to. My kids asking me about my day will always ask if I played and if I got beat!

As I flip through the endless score sheets that we have filled this past year, I am reminded of the friendship that has grown between two people. It was never about who won or lost (I lost A LOT), it was about TIME . . . taking the time to get to know someone, making the effort to brighten their day, letting them know they mattered. Even though I will soon be moving on I hope to continue to visit and "play a game or two".