“Ice, Ice, Baby! Perley Winterlude Brings Flurries of Fun

This year's Perley Health Winterlude was a resounding success, bringing lots of winter magic to our community. Residents, staff, tenants, and friends and loved ones gathered for an afternoon filled with engaging activities, delicious treats, and well-deserved appreciation for our incredible Therapeutic Recreation team (February is Therapeutic Recreation Month, after all!).

The highlight of the day? A spirited snowball fight in the cafeteria! Don't worry, though- while the Therapeutic Recreation team did an excellent job of "ordering" snow, we're happy to report it was of the soft, indoor variety—perfect for friendly competition. Not only that, but Michelle Proulx, Manager, Therapeutic Recreation and Creative Arts, shared that beyond the fun, the snowball fight also provided and promoted stress relief, mindfulness, teamwork, muscle engagement, and a pretty good cardiovascular boost for all who played along.

After working up an appetite, our community refueled with some classic Winterlude treats. Hot chocolate was served in the pub, while the much-anticipated Perley Tails—our delicious, homemade take on a Canadian classic—was a crowd favorite. The Therapeutic Recreation and Creative Arts and the Food & Nutrition teams made these treats in-house earlier that day and served them fresh out of the Perley Health cafeteria.

Winterlude is just one of the many events that showcase the dedication and creativity of our Therapeutic Recreation team. As February is Therapeutic Recreation Month, it's only fitting that we use this time and this space to shout out our hardworking team. Their hard work makes moments like these possible and creates lasting and magical memories for not only those in our care but for staff, volunteers, and friends and loved ones alike. If you haven't already, we encourage you to share your thanks and kudos with the team!

Until next year, stay warm, and keep the Winterlude spirit alive!

- Meg O'Connell

Hot chocolate, Perley tails, and a massive indoor snowball fight that was both educational and fun! The Therapeutic Recreation team sure knows how to get residents, tenants and staff engaged.