Building Bridges

Building Bridges Between The Generations
Encore believes in promoting social interaction between young and senior generations to encourage joy and good health.
Encore partners with local children organizations, like Malvern Elementary School and the First Baptist Children’s Center, to bring children and residents together in a fun-filled, mutually beneficial social environment.

 

Called Building Bridges, this innovative intergenerational program helps eliminate the stereotypes of nursing homes and the elderly. It also encourages learning and promotes social interactions between the two groups.

Whether it’s writing a heartfelt poem, adopting an Encore grand-friend, reading a story together, or passing out handmade cards, the students brighten the lives of our residents and vice versa.

 

Additional interactions may include:

  • Residents reading to students in the classroom
  • Children reading to bed-bound residents
  • Playing board games
  • Working together on puzzles
  • Singing songs
  • Making snacks
  • Students volunteering at Elder Outreach community socials

 

These interactions are a win-win for both groups. Residents experience less isolation, learn new skills, receive needed emotional support and experience health benefits. At the same time, the children often see improvement in their academics and growth in their social skills, while exhibiting less negative behavior.

  • “Bringing children into Encore makes us a more vibrant and lively place to live. The smiles and increased socialization are obvious as soon as the children walk through the front doors. Residents are especially excited to see kids who make repeat visits because relationships are formed.”

    Ashley L. | Encore Life Enrichment Director