With 17-year-old Ruby Robinson’s grandparents living overseas, the Catherine McAuley College (CMC) student jumped at the chance to build relationships with residents at Bendigo’s Mercy Health Bethlehem Home for the Aged when she first heard about the Mercy Health intergenerational program.
Despite living happily with her immediate family in Bendigo, Ruby says she often feels that not having older people in her life is a part of growing up where “something is not quite as it should be”.
“As soon as I heard that CMC was planning what’s become known as the iGEN program, I wanted to know more,” Ruby says.
The iGEN program brings together CMC students and Mercy Health aged care residents, with the students undertaking learning as part of a regular classroom subject. About 350 students have been a part of the program since it began in 2020. The program encourages relationships and respect between secondary students and aged care residents, which is key to fostering the aged care workforce of the future.
Ruby says her semester at the home has opened her eyes to the idea of a career in aged care.
“My mum works in aged care — I know what she does and the commitment she makes,” Ruby says. “Caring for older people needs staff who are patient, respectful and willing to listen. I can see that and I hope they are some of the caring qualities I possess.”
CMC student Ruby Robinson (left) and resident Jean McGlashen (right) share a special bond
For residents like 94-year-old, Jean McGlashen, who is Ruby’s special friend, the program energises her both physically and spiritually.
“I can’t wait for the next visit. Ruby and I discuss everything,” Jean says. “We laugh together, I tell her about my life and try to offer her advice — we get on so well. It makes me feel good about life.”
Resident Allan Power has also found great joy in the new connections fostered through the iGEN program. “I’ve been thrilled from the moment I met the students. It’s magic, that’s the only word I can use to describe it.”
Resident Allan Power (centre) looks forward to catch-ups with students Isabella Zerk (left) and Emila Hamilton (right)
Mercy Health Chief Executive Residential Aged Care, Home Care and Seniors Living, Adjunct Associate Professor Felix Pintado says a highlight of the two-year program has been the connection and warmth forged between students and residents.
“Some of the first CMC students who took part in the program still maintain regular contact with residents, while others are offering to return to the home to undertake some work or as part of their work experience,” says Felix.
“There is evidence that the initiative is encouraging some students to consider a career in aged care and we welcome that aspect of the program.”
CMC Principal Brian Turner says all students who participate in the program have done so voluntarily.
“Just by wanting to be a part of the project, it’s a display of characteristics such as empathy, compassion and respect,” Brian says. “What I’ve noticed quite clearly is how some of our students’ communication skills have improved.
“They are learning how to engage on a different level and how to hold that conversation — it’s been great to watch.”
Australian Catholic University researchers are analysing the intergenerational program using participants’ feedback, with results to be published later this year.
Last reviewed November 2, 2022.