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GenConnect program unifies young, old

A new program has been developed by a Queensland aged care provider to enrich the connection between young people and seniors. The GenConnect program was developed by Julie Hoffmann, PresCare’s volunteer program manager.

<p>Thirteen year old, Emily Dance, connects with PresCare resident, Maud. </p>

Thirteen year old, Emily Dance, connects with PresCare resident, Maud.

Thirteen year old Emily Dance was one of a dozen students from Riverside Christian College in Maryborough to participate in GenConnect.

Ms Hoffmann developed the program during which, over a period of about six to eight weeks, students from Riverside Christian College each visited with a resident of PresCare’s Yaralla Place and Groundwater Lodge residential aged care facilities. 

When asked during the ceremony, held at the conclusion of the first round of the program in Maryborough, Emily said she learned a lot over the weeks.

“I found out that Maud, the lady I was partnered with, once lived in the house directly opposite the house my nan is living in,” she said. “And Maud was actually really surprised to hear about laptops.”

Ms Hoffmann said GenConnect is aimed at enriching the connection between young people and seniors.

“Kids need to learn that nana didn’t just arrive old. She had her own hopes and dreams and aspirations,” she said.

Ms Hoffmann added many of the residents that participated in the program were disappointed when they found out they’d have to wait a few weeks before the second round would begin as they enjoyed it so much.

PresCare was advised that the school was happy with the results and they plan to participate again next semester with potentially a larger group of students.

PresCare now has plans to expand the program after the resounding success of the first round, and will partner with high schools located near PresCare residential services across Queensland.  

“The school will be asked to consider this social program and allow interested students to participate,” Ms Hoffmann said.

“Ultimately, we hope the long term benefits of this program are that we’re helping produce a greater number of young Australians who feel more connected, through a living history, to their place in our society.”

For more information on the GenConnect program, contact Julie Hoffmann on (07) 3223 4444.

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