Mercy Health’s groundbreaking intergenerational program, iGEN, has proven so popular at its inaugural site that it is now being delivered at other regional Mercy Health aged care homes.
The iGEN program began at Mercy Health Bethlehem Home for the Aged in Bendigo, where residents and secondary students from Catherine McAuley College (CMC) are now enjoying more face-to-face interactions.
About 350 students have participated in the Bendigo-based program since it began in 2020, and the class is continuing to grow in popularity.
Given a 70-year age gap, CMC student Taylah Petrusma and resident Ivy Conole’s friendship through iGEN prompted the interest of the ABC
With an eye to eventually establishing similar in-person programs at other Mercy Health residential aged care homes, the Bendigo partnership has been extended to Mercy Place Shepparton and Mercy Place Ballarat.
“Relationships are at the heart of really great aged care — that is why we were so excited to bring the iGEN program to more Mercy Health homes,” says Mercy Health Acting National Manager Residential Aged Care Services Tania Bugat.
“Residents love it, and it gives students a chance to experience what it might be like to work in a caring profession.”
CMC students were connected with Mercy Place Shepparton residents in Semester 1, and Mercy Place Ballarat residents in Semester 2. Engagement is predominantly online but students and residents come together for two classes in person during the semester.
One of the lead iGEN teachers at CMC, Jessica Tasca, says strong relationships have formed despite the virtual format. “Once the virtual meets occur and the student has weekly meetings with the same resident, a strong connection grows and the students feel grateful and lucky to be a part of the class,” Jessica says.
“Then, there’s an overwhelming joy on both the students’ and residents’ faces when they eventually meet in person for the first time — it is just beautiful.”
The virtual sessions run for up to 60 minutes and cover topics such as family, career, hobbies and special events.
“Students and staff at CMC feel extremely blessed to be part of such a worthy program and we look forward to seeing how it grows in the future,” Jessica says.
Last reviewed November 2, 2022.