Connecting generations at Caboolture

Aged care day therapy attendees and childcare students are coming together to grow intergenerational friendships in Caboolture.

Bolton Clarke Fernhill Day Therapy centre has been hosting children from Casia House every other month, with clients and children learning from each another.

Day Therapy client Colin Embery visits Fernhill once a week and says he looks forward to the regular children’s visits.

“It is great spending time with the kids. There are a few that are a bit cheeky or a bit shy, but they have all started to warm up to us and it’s a lot of fun,” Colin said.

“I was pretty shy too when I first joined in, but now they can’t shut me up and we look forward to the kids visiting.

“I’m not married and haven’t had kids of my own so it’s been really good!”

This week is Global Intergenerational Week, recognising the importance of fostering relationships between older and younger people to help combat loneliness and encourage intergenerational learning.

Bolton Clarke Lifestyle Coordinator Leah Ryan says the team have seen the positive impact it’s had on their clients’ wellbeing.

“I think intergenerational friendships are so important as it bridges the gap between the young and old,” Leah said.

“I’ve noticed overall that the interactions have had a positive impact on our clients’ physical, emotional and social wellbeing.

“We have around four of the children come visit us and they will do things like painting, colouring and ball games – it’s a great time.”