What are Care Centre/School Programs?
Care Centre/School programs provide the opportunity for students in junior and high schools to participate together in intergenerational programs at care centres. Programs are one hour in length, bi-weekly or weekly, from October to May. The intention is to empower students and seniors to form connections where each generation benefits through shared experiences, skills and knowledge. In some cases, the relationship continues beyond the program.
How is the program organized?
Schools and care centres are partnered based on mutual collaboration and geographical distance. Pre-planned and organized programs are facilitated by volunteers or LINKages’ staff with the support of school liaisons and care centre staff. Two students are partnered with one senior friend for the duration of the program. At each visit,the participants engage in activities that are intentional, interactive, and fun, designed to help foster mutually beneficial intergenerational connections.
What training is provided?
In September each year, the Care Centre/School Program Coordinator presents an information session in collaboration with an invested school liaison. Students learn about the LINKages’ program and how to apply to be a participant. The students who are accepted into the program must attend a LINKages’ sensitivity workshop and an orientation at the care centre before the visits begin. The sensitivity training teaches the students about aging, dementia, and how to interact with seniors.
How do I become involved?
Are you interested in having a program in your care centre?
Are you interested in having the students in your school participate in a program?
Are you a student who would like to participate in a LINKages’ program?
Please email LINKages by clicking on the button below. We will contact you to determine what is required to start a program in your school or care centre.
104
Age of Oldest
Participant
10
Age of Youngest Participant
15
Schools
(2020 – 2021)
14
Care Centres
(2020 – 2021)
Youth participants report an increase in confidence, mental well-being, self-esteem and social skills.
Senior participants report an increase in sense of purpose, connection, value and appreciation.
Both groups play a role in reducing social isolation, increasing inclusion, and harnessing age-friendly communities in Calgary.