Intergenerational project with BUPA Woodend

Intergenerational Project with BUPA Woodend

During first term I have been working with BUPA Woodend to facilitate an intergenerational program for students of Macedon Primary. 

Intergenerational programs and their benefits have now been highlighted following the success of the ABC show “Old People’s Homes for 4 Year Olds”. The research shows that creating cross generational connections through intergenerational programs can be a powerful model for positive social impact and better health outcomes in Australia. 

Bringing together younger and older people have major benefits including: 

FOR OLDER PEOPLE 

• reduce or delay cognitive and physical decline (dementia, frailty etc)
• reduce social isolation
• provide a sense of purpose and an improved mood 
• develop a theoretical basis for lifelong learning

 FOR YOUNGER PEOPLE 

• improve pro-social behaviours of sharing, help and cooperation 
• increase confidence and communication skills 

• contribute to community
• reduce potential negative behaviours later in life 

The visits will occur every Friday fortnight from 9.30 – 11.00am. There will be a timetable and all students will participate in the program across the year. Students will be bused to Woodend at a cost of $11.00. This cost will be the only cost families will incur for the year. A permission form will be put on XUNO this week. Could families please fill this out as soon as possible. 

For the month of May 1/2 CD will be our first class to participate on Friday 10th May and on Friday 24th May 1/2TT will participate in the program.