Every school holiday brings a morning of fun and excitement to Aria Court care home as children and residents come together for the Generation Games in March.
It’s a wonderful sight to see the young ones and the elderly residents sharing laughter, stories, and activities in the home, showcasing the beautiful impact intergenerational interactions can have on both young and old alike.
This half term was no exception, with a variety of activities that brought smiles to everyone’s faces. From colouring sessions and crafting snake spirals to adorn their rooms, to engaging in friendly competitions with a giant game of Connect 4, tackling jigsaw puzzles, and enjoying a variety of games on the ever-popular Omi interactive table, there is never a dull moment when the children are around at Aria Court.
The atmosphere during these events is truly special, with the enjoyment reflected on the faces of the residents as they welcome the children and toddlers into their home.
It’s evident that these moments are valued by both the elderly and the young visitors alike, making the Generation Games a truly worthwhile tradition that brings the community closer together. Plans are already in hand for the Easter Generation Games which is planned to take place on Wednesday, April 3rd.
Intergenerational events like the Generation Games are more than just great fun, they offer a multitude of benefits including –
- Social interaction – For many elderly residents, social interaction can be limited, but events like these provide invaluable opportunities for them to engage with younger generations, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.
- Mental stimulation – participating in activities with children, whether it’s crafting, playing games, or simply talking, stimulates the minds of our elderly residents, helping to keep them mentally sharp and active.
- Emotional well-being – Interacting with children often brings a sense of joy and purpose to older people, fostering emotional wellbeing and a sense of fulfillment as they share experiences and create memories with the younger generation.
- Bridging the generation gap – This type of event helps to bridge the generation gap by fostering understanding and mutual respect between different age groups.
- Sense of belonging – By involving residents in intergenerational activities, care homes like Aria Court create a sense of belonging and community, where both young and old feel valued and appreciated.
- Positive energy – children inject positivity into the atmosphere, lifting spirits and creating a lively environment for everyone to enjoy.
- Learning and growth – Children benefit from interacting with elderly residents by learning from their wisdom, experiences, and stories, promoting empathy, respect for elders, and valuable life lessons.
- Enhanced wellbeing – Both young and old benefit from the sense of purpose, companionship, and connection that intergenerational events provide, leading to overall improved wellbeing for all involved.
