Pen pal program bridges generations

A penpal program between students and residents at a Queensland aged care facility is helping to bring together the young and old.

The project, Bridging Generations, was developed by McKenzie Aged Care Group’s assisted living residence The Terraces, and has been nationally recognised at this year’s Better Practice Awards, held by the Aged Care Standards and Accreditation Agency.

The project began with children from All Saints College writing letters to residents who then replied. After a few exchanges, the students came to visit the residents at The Terraces and residents returned the favour.

Julie Wolsey, diversional therapist at The Terraces and initiator of the program, said it was a great occasion for both generations to learn from each other.

“The students have learned a lot about manners and how life used to be, while the residents just love hearing about today’s world through the eyes of young children – they’re even learning about new technology like iPads, Skype and Facebook,” Ms Wolsey said.

This appreciation for new technology has helped some residents increase communication with their own families.

Ms Wolsey added the residents were feeling a great sense of personal satisfaction, pleasure and self-worth from the program.

“You can just see residents’ eyes light up when the children come into the room, especially during the visit to the school, it brought back a lot of fond memories for them,” she said.

The enthusiasm from the school is equally as strong, with students eagerly anticipating the arrival of each letter and enjoying the opportunity to tell someone who cares about their busy lives.

The program has been running for two years and many residents are still writing frequently to their original buddy.

For more information about The Terraces, click here.