An emerging issue across NSW is that older people are prematurely accessing Residential Aged Care. One contributing factor may be that their physical and mental health is declining earlier than expected due to a lack of meaningful connections and activities designed to keep them healthier for longer.

Intergenerational programs bring together older adults and children for regular, group-based activities that are usually held weekly over a defined time-period. Sessions can range from play-based interactions, leisure activities, pre-school visits, purposeful learning experiences and more. 

This local program will connect people living in the community, or Independent Living Accommodation, aged 65 years and over (or 55 years and over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples) and children aged 3-5 years for group-based interactions. 

The objectives are to foster meaningful engagement between the generations, enriching learning opportunities and improving the social, health and wellbeing outcomes for both older people and children.

We are seeking suitable organisations to design and deliver the program, in one or more area/s. Proposals from a variety of organisations are welcome. The program design is flexible and providers should propose their intended model. Part of the initiative’s goal is to support independent living for as long as possible.

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