Mercy Care Hosts Exciting Game Night for Adirondack Community Members

Mercy Care for the Adirondacks recently hosted a game day for their friendship volunteers, elder friends, and residents from St. Joe’s veterans and first responders. The event took place at the First Presbyterian Church in Saranac Lake and included lunch and new, multi-generational versions of classic board games.

The purpose of bringing together Mercy Care volunteers, elder friends, and St. Joe’s residents was to help combat the isolation and loneliness that people of all ages are experiencing, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Mercy Care’s mission is to enhance the lives of elders in the community in every dimension.

According to Lexi Bevilacqua, the program director, these “Creativity in Aging” events are designed to offer elders the opportunity to stay connected to their community. The organization hosts these programs throughout the year in the Tri-Lakes area, and they are open to all volunteers, parish nurses, and elder friends associated with Mercy Care.

Katherine Rhodes, Mercy Care’s elder care manager, noted the joy of hearing laughter and conversation as friends and residents shared stories, food, and fellowship. She said that these events are an important part of Mercy Care’s effort to combat social isolation among seniors during difficult times like these. The next Mercy Care Friendship Volunteer Training Program is scheduled for January 18