The Child Care in Aged Care Project
While our oldest and youngest generations may seem worlds apart, a new ageing well initiative will bring them together. In an innovative intergenerational education and development program, children will be connected with older people in a structured way.
Supported by the Office for Ageing Well, SA Health, led by aged care provider ACH Group and co-designed with the University of South Australia and the City West Child Care Centre, the Child Care in Aged Care project is an intergenerational program that aims to deliver significant health and wellbeing benefits for older people and preschool children alike.
Announced as part of the state government’s five-year plan to support all South Australians to age well, the Child Care in Aged Care project will promote meaningful community connections and challenge ageism by linking generations and challenging stereotypes.
UniSA partner and occupational therapist, Dr Carolyn Murray, says the social opportunities afforded by the program will be unique to South Australia.
“Intergenerational activities have so many benefits for all participants, but they’re particularly good for creating genuine opportunities that encourage social connectedness,” Dr Murray says.
“When we bring together older people and preschool-aged children, we find that there is a real sense of joy. Everyone is focussed, everyone is in the moment, and as a result, everyone benefits.”
Current statistics show that South Australia has the highest proportion of older people in mainland Australia with more than 37 per cent of South Australians aged over 50 years.
The Child Care in Aged Care project is still in the development phase, but it hopes to enhance connections between different sectors (community, government, aged care, child care and university) to tackle ageism and grow diversity.
UniSA’s occupational therapy students will also be involved in the implementation of the program, further extending its reach and impact while also providing valuable hands-on experience for students.
The pilot is expected to commence in 2021.
For more information and all enquiries please visit the UniSA website.
What: The Child Care in Aged Care project
When: Pilot commencing in 2021
Where: Adelaide
Who: Everyone
At Play & Go Adelaide we make every effort to provide accurate information to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. We recommend confirming times, dates and details directly before making any plans as details may be subject to change.
Image Source: UniSA website.
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