10th Edition of the Inter-Home Games

Because enabling every senior to remain an active participant in their own life and age well also involves movement, challenge, and social connection.

Our Foundation was delighted to attend the 10th edition of the Inter-Home Olympics, accompanied by the project’s patron, Isabelle Picard.

Organized by Youssef Kaddar—head of the Papy Boom association—at the King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels, this major intergenerational sports gathering was held in collaboration with Valérie Cozzi, a lecturer at HE2B (Haute École Bruxelles-Brabant). It was a memorable day where sport fostered a sense of connection between generations.

1. The King Baudouin Stadium as a playing field: a sporting and accessible challenge

To mark its tenth anniversary, the event pulled out all the stops by taking over the track and facilities of the King Baudouin Stadium. Cheered on by loved ones and staff, seniors from various facilities competed in adapted physical activities. Far from being mere entertainment, these challenges boost the participants' motor skills, balance, and endurance. Seeing our seniors cross the finish line or win an event in such a major sports venue inspires immense pride.

2. The HE2B x Papy Boom synergy: when students rally for our seniors

The success of this day is due to the incredible energy shown by the HE2B students, guided by their professor, Valérie Cozzi. Whether training to be physiotherapists or special needs educators, they all applied their professional skills to the event. This hands-on experience gives students a human perspective on their future careers while sharing an infectious zest for life with the seniors.

3. Smiles, competition, and medals

Beyond the competition itself, the inter-residence games are first and foremost a celebration of solidarity (the day concluded with a dance and refreshments). The day’s highlights also lay in spontaneous moments of sharing, laughter, and the emotion felt during the awards ceremony. The trophies and medals presented to the winners reward their efforts, but above all, they symbolize the victory of social connection over loneliness.

A message from the teams on the ground: A huge well done to the Papy Boom association, the volunteers, the On Seniors'Side association, and the students for their dedication and infectious energy that brought the King Baudouin Stadium to life!