When Covid outbreaks and lockdowns were at their height, and residents were unable to connect in person with the outside world, a true sense of loneliness and disconnection was felt.
Being unable to embrace loved ones, or connect in person, was a foreign concept many had never felt in their lifetime… and a sad reality for longer than anyone had hoped.
With the lack of visitation and presence of family, friends and general buzz from visitors of all ages around our homes, many of our residents longed for that intergenerational connection and the energy those visits injected into the home, and into their daily lives.
Human connection between young and old
Since the threat of Covid has reduced, and visitation has been deemed safe for all involved, we have worked hard to introduce a host of intergenerational activities for our residents to enjoy with their young friends – one of them being our Teddy Bears’ Picnic!
Our first Infinite Care Teddy Bears’ Picnic was held at all our sites on July 10, 2023. Now an annual event on the calendar due to its success, this cute and cuddly event saw families, friends, staff, staff members children and grandchildren, playgroups, kindergarten and school aged children all descend on our homes to share in teddy bear activities, tasty morning and afternoon treats, and a whole host of festivities.
Our homes went all out!
Each home went all out to bring their communities together, with several Facility Managers even dressing up as giant bears for the occasion! Many attendees entered their favourite teddy bears into various competitions, which included prizes of over 170 handknitted mini-bears donated by talented residents and volunteers.
The benefits are endless
Intergenerational opportunities in aged care provide immeasurable benefits to both the elderly residents and the younger participants. They share stories, skills and knowledge to enrich each other’s lives and in turn reduce loneliness and isolation for our older generations.
We love that our residents can enjoy access to this wonderful human phenomenon once again!
