Bridging the generation gap
Care home visits are a huge success
A West Lothian care home has hailed the beneficial effects visits from young children can make to their residents after teaming up with a toddler group for fun days at the home.
Crofthead Care Home in Fauldhouse had the kids from The Pitstop, Addiewell Mother and Toddler Group, drop in on them on Thursday for a monthly meet-up that is enjoyed by both young and old.
It is the third such meet-up between the two and everyone involved seems to be reaping the benefits.
Mary Law, Activity Coordinator at Crofthead said: “The kids came here and it was amazing.
“There were tears in people’s eyes when they saw how the residents were responding because they don’t get to see many kids, it’s mainly adults that visit. It was amazing how the kids just automatically went over and interacted with the residents.
“There was one wee girl who took a set of bubbles and went around all the residents and started blowing bubbles.”
Mary believes that the residents of Crofthead enjoy the days with the kids so much that other care homes should try and have similar events.
She said: “It’s been such a success. I just want other homes to get involved because it really works .”
Julie McMahon, who runs The Pitstop, Addiwell Mother and Toddler Group, also spoke of the benefits of the day to both child and resident.
She said: “It’s great to see the difference in the residents and the kids.
“The kids really come out of themselves.
“Everyone can be as much involved or as little involved as they want. It’s great to see everyone interacting and it’s really beneficial.”
Laura Johnston, whose two daughters Leah and Abbie took part in the visit, was also in full support of the initiative.
She said: “This is our third time. Last time was really good because we got to go and meet residents upstairs as well.
“It’s really nice. They all play and sing songs.
“Just before Christmas they were all singing Jingle Bells and Christmas songs. It was really great.”
And 93- year- old resident Jenny Armstrong was delighted to see the young visitors.
Jenny said: “I think they’re lovely children.
“I’m used to children because I was a Brownie for 20 years and it was great fun.
“I was also a school auxiliary for 20 years. You give me children and I’ll be happy.”