Coming together for a love of the game
Have fun, stay active and make connections through the Fun!-Damentals of Table Tennis program.
Join the spring Fun!-Damentals of Table Tennis program
Participate in gentle recreational play and learn the basic techniques and rules of table tennis while having tons of fun. Sessions run weekly on Wednesdays, from 6-8 pm.
A fun way to learn and connect
For Richard Fisher, the weekly dementia-friendly Fun!-Damentals of Table Tennis program is a time to bond with his son-in-law, Volker, while enjoying a sport he has loved for years. It also offers opportunities to meet others living with dementia and learn more about the disease and the supports available through the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba.
“The first focus of the program is really just on the pairs playing, and then during the break, that’s when the social aspect of it kicks in,” says Volker.
Volker says the program is an especially great fit for Richard, who prefers activity over socialization. “Any conversations that happen are easy and relaxed,” he says. “There’s no pressure to talk about anything specific. We can just focus on the game and have fun.”
The program also felt like a natural fit for Richard, who has long enjoyed racket sports like table tennis and badminton. He sees it as a good way to start learning more about dementia and building connections within the community.
“Everyone here has something in common,” says Richard. “It gives you an easy opening to ask questions and learn more.”
Richard’s wife, Faith, also sees the benefits. “I think it’s a great program. It offers routine, physical activity and moments of connection,” she says. “On Tuesday nights, when Richard gets home, I always know we’ll both
have a good night’s sleep.”
Staying accessible & dementia-friendly
Program facilitator, Carlos Cuadra, from the Manitoba Table Tennis Association, is passionate about creating a welcoming, accessible space for people of all abilities to play table tennis.
“We work closely with the Alzheimer Society to focus on best practices and then implement those into our program,” he says. “This program is all about having fun while we’re learning something new, but in a way that doesn’t feel overwhelming.”
For Carlos, the impact is clear. “You see the pairs having a moment of shared joy in their day. That really stands out to me,” he says. “Even with everything they’re navigating, they’re able to connect and laugh. It’s really rewarding to be a part of that.”
“Anyone who thinks this program would be a good fit should come give it a try,” says Carlos.
The Fun!-Damentals of Table Tennis program is developed in partnership between the Manitoba Table Tennis Association and the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba.
