Playgroups in aged care homes are bringing joy and connection

Intergenerational playgroups in Australia pair preschool children with aged care residents and have expanded since a 2019 ABC series; staff and researchers report improvements in residents' mood, activity levels and social engagement.

Intergenerational playgroups that bring preschool children into aged care homes are growing in parts of Australia. The idea received wide attention after the ABC series Old People's Home for 4 Year Olds first aired in 2019. Local facilities such as Compton Gardens and TriCare Aspley now run regular sessions where children, parents and residents play, sing and share time together. Staff and clinicians say the interactions can lift mood and help residents engage more with others. What is known: - The ABC series reported that after seven weeks participating residents were stronger, happier and more active, and the children became more confident and empathetic. - Research and experts cited in the article note that about half of people in aged care experience depression and around 40% receive no visitors. - A 2023 survey found about one in five aged care homes had an intergenerational play program, and Griffith University linked the ABC series to increased interest in such initiatives. - Geriatrician Susan Kurrle, who featured on the show, said she received more than 800 emails after the series and that momentum for intergenerational practice is re-emerging after pandemic disruptions and stricter checks. - Local examples include fortnightly play sessions at Compton Gardens in Brisbane and a program started at TriCare Aspley three years ago to encourage residents back into communal activities after COVID. Summary: Participants and staff describe clear social and emotional benefits from bringing young children and older residents together, including renewed social connection and small improvements in activity and mood; interest in intergenerational programs grew after the 2019 TV series and a national peak body, the Australian Institute for Intergenerational Practice, was established. Momentum slowed during the pandemic but is reported as regaining strength, and about one in five homes currently report running such programs.