Many of the 400 residents of Peace Memorial Village retirement complex in Palos Park participated last week in games that are more designed to foster community spirit than to rate athletic skills.
Senior Games 2000, featuring walking contests, shuffleboard, a water balloon toss, croquet, a spelling bee and a pet walk, are geared for participants whose average age is 80, said activity director Amanda Senerchia. Likewise, a scavenger hunt that was held over three days was expected to motivate some of the residents to visit with their neighbors in the sprawling complex of one- and two-bedroom apartments and assisted living dormitories.
Paul Zimmer, who moved to Peace Memorial Village seven months ago from Chicago, said the games, like all social events in the townlike atmosphere, help him to get to know his neighbors. Zimmer, an 80-year-old retired Chicago Public Schools teacher, said his lifestyle may be slowed somewhat by age but he remains active with volunteer work and social events.
“Oh, to be 40 again,” he said as he caught his breath after finishing one lap walking around the pond in the courtyard. “You learn to live every day to the fullest.”
Hedy Hardy has lived in the retirement village for two years since moving out of her home in Calumet Park.
A friend pushed her wheelchair so that she could compete in the race Monday morning, the first day of a week of games and special events.
More Top Picks Best Amazon Prime Big Deal Days 3d Printer Deals 2026 Sale
“Later, I’ll probably get in on the balloon toss and the bean bag throw,” said the 81-year-old mother of seven. “It’s fun to get to know more people.”
“We have a very active group of people,” said Peace Memorial’s new executive director, John Detrick. “The reason for this second annual event is to allow the residents to have some fun and to get to know each other.”
The fun spirit was established from the start as the Olympic-themed song from “Chariots of Fire” was played to officially start Senior Games 2000. A colorful foil torch was passed to about a dozen participants at the opening ceremony, and a group of about 70 sang “The Star Spangled Banner.”
“Any activity that gets us together is good,” said 90-year-old Bryon Crowe, who finished three laps around the courtyard using a cane to steady his step.
Last year, Ed Bradshaw said he figured he was too old to compete in any of the contests. This year, after finishing 11 laps around the pond, the 86-year-old said, “I have more confidence.”