Witnessing the positive impact of The Herd Intergenerational Learning Centre first-hand has been a welcome joy for 75-year old, Leslie Condon who has been a resident at Uniting AgeWell Andrew Kerr Care Community for four years.
The first centre of its kind in Australia built under the same roof as an aged care facility, The Herd ILC caters for 66 children aged from six weeks to four years old and recently celebrated its first birthday.
Toddlers from The Herd ILC came together with their grand-friends to mark the occasion with cupcakes, savoury treats, bubbles and face painting.
Research shows intergenerational care can improve the quality of life of aged care residents, and combat isolation and loneliness. Children can also benefit, developing higher levels of empathy and social acceptance.
The Lifestyle Team at Andrew Kerr Care Community and The Herd ILC work together to organise weekly activities between residents and the toddlers.
For Leslie, the many little visitors The Herd ILC brings to Andrew Kerr Care Community has added more laughs, games and much welcomed joy to her day. The excitement has also helped her to get a better sleep at night.
“We play bingo. They love bingo!” Leslie laughs as she reflects on her time with toddlers from the program. “I like having a chat sometimes, and finding out what they have been up to on the weekends. And you always have a special one who jumps on you and gives you kisses.”
Born and raised on Melbourne’s Mornington Peninsula, Leslie has always been an active member of the community working at the Post Office and providing child care to local families. It is no surprise that she has come to love her new role as grand-friend and looks forward to bus trips with fellow residents to the beach.
Learn more about life at our Andrew Kerr Care Community here.