Young and old

The benefits of opposite ends of the generational scale getting together and enjoying each other’s company is a beautiful thing to witness, and in our homes in WA and NSW, it’s something we love to see.

Residents at Kensington Park Aged Care Home in WA have been getting to know some extra special little VIPs recently.

The home has started a relationship with Busy Bees Childcare centre in Kensington which means a group of residents each month visit the childcare centre and spend time with the children.

It’s an opportunity for our residents to play games, reminisce about childhood memories and even pet some cuddly bunnies with the next generation. As you can see from some of the images both the residents and the children love this opportunity to enjoy each other’s company - where age is no barrier to fun.

Meanwhile, in Penshurst, NSW, Playgroup NSW celebrated the launch of a new ‘Timeless Play’ intergenerational program that aims to bridge the gap between the young and young-at-heart.

The Supported Playgroup has started to meet fortnightly at Georges Estate Health & Aged Care Community in Penshurst for the next year and aims to connect the older generation with the youngest in their community, to combat loneliness, isolation and mental health issues.

The group hope to develop deeper connections through play-based activities, led by Playgroup NSW Educators, the organisation said in a statement today.

“Our Intergenerational Playgroups provide an opportunity for multigenerational play and fun in both aged-care and community settings,” it said.

The Timeless Play program aims to connect generations through play-based activities that foster friendship, community cohesion and value the insights and experiences of all who attend.

“We’re very excited to welcome Playgroup NSW to Georges Estate to be able to interact and help make our residents smile, as they enjoy the activities with the children.

“The connection between generations is so important and we can see from today how beautiful it’s been, and they have interacted together so quicklyso many beautiful smiles from both the families and the residents,” said Kris Healy, General Manager NSW of Hall & Prior which runs Georges Estate Health & Aged Care Community.

“Through this program we hope to see the beauty of friendships and connections formed through the experience of play between the generations. This two-hour space once a fortnight will be a relaxed and happy place to play and grow as a community. Many priceless memories will be made in this group,” said Allyson Gyrmakis, Playgroup NSW Intergenerational Program leader.

The Timeless Play Intergenerational program aims to increase activity engagement, social inclusion, to decrease depression and anxiety and assist in cognitive and physical maintenance.

Age No Barrier To Fun

Hall & Prior residents and visitors from local childcare centres enjoying each other’s company.