Bridging three generations

October 24, 2024

Connecting through the ages: Eight-month-old Darcey with residents Kerry and Joy

In a heartwarming first, SCC has partnered with Playgroup NSW to bring the magic of intergenerational therapy to residents.

The inaugural session was held at Daceyville where smiles and laughter filled the air as the young and young at heart bonded over games, songs, and storytelling.

The corridors echoed with squeals of delight as the kids and residents held hands, creating an environment of warmth and connection.

One resident commented: “I haven’t laughed this much for a long time; it was marvellous to see the little ones and their lovely mums who took time out of their busy schedules to visit us”.

While one of the mums shared: “I had watched the program on tv and was so inspired by what I saw that I couldn’t wait to get involved. I’m really looking forward to making new friendships with the residents as well as the other parents”.

The benefits of such programs are profound. For the older generation, their mood improves, and they feel less isolated. Interacting and engaging with children can tremendously lift their spirits. On the other hand, for the younger generation it’s an exciting and fun experience to play with a whole new group of people with a different perspective on life.

For parents, there’s always something new to learn from the older generations.

Southern Cross Care Volunteer & Community Engagement Manager Vanessa Ogborne said the program will prove that age is no barrier to friendship.

"This partnership is a milestone for us," she said.

“It’s a shining example of how community initiatives can enrich lives, creating a brighter future for all participants and is a beautiful exchange of joy and wisdom."

The pilot program will run for a year, with visits from Playgroup NSW every fortnight. At the end of 12 months, the initiative will be reviewed and potentially rolled out across the SCC community.