A new model of social connection has emerged in one North Auckland retirement village, including visits regularly from nearby four and five-year-old children.
With growing awareness of loneliness and social isolation among older New Zealanders, retirement villages are increasingly looking at ways to support stronger social connection and community engagement.
The Retirement Village has introduced several initiatives aimed at supporting social connection, including visits every second Friday morning from four and five-year-olds at nearby Lollipops Educare Albany.
The visits began last November as part of the village’s wider focus on community connection and wellbeing. Programmes like these are increasingly backed by research. Studies from Ageing Well, Age Concern New Zealand and the World Health Organisation suggest intergenerational activities, particularly those linking older adults with young children, can reduce feelings of isolation and depression, while improving wellbeing, mood and sense of purpose.
The visits have quickly become a favourite among residents and staff alike. The atmosphere changes the moment the children arrive, with rooms soon filled with games, singing, chatter, and the lively energy young children naturally bring. Staff say residents visibly brighten during the visits, becoming more interactive, social and emotionally engaged both before and throughout the sessions.
Researchers have also found benefits for children, including increased empathy, confidence and stronger social understanding.
Cindy Naidoo, Centre Manager at Lollipops Albany, said the visits have become something the children eagerly anticipate.
“When the kids get back, they draw pictures about their experiences to share with each other, family and teachers,” she said.
“They absolutely light up when it is time for the visit. They often talk about their friends at Rosedale and recall previous interactions.”
The Village’s Activities Coordinator Jolene said the programme has become one of the most rewarding parts of village life and something many residents now look forward to each fortnight.
“Some of the most touching moments come at the end of each visit, when the children rush over to say goodbye with hugs for the residents. You can see how much joy it brings to everyone involved,” she said.
“When the residents are smiling and laughing, you know the visits are making a real difference.”
Alongside the kindergarten visits, the village regularly welcomes canine therapy groups, entertainers and community visitors as part of its focus on keeping residents socially connected and engaged with the wider community. Residents also take part in movie nights, bingo, karaoke, art, cooking and exercise sessions, as well as BBQs on the deck, creating regular opportunities for friendship and interaction. Regular outings include scenic drives, trips to malls and cafés, with visits to local thrift stores proving especially popular and giving residents the chance to stay active and connected beyond the village itself.
Rosedale provides continuation of care as life changes. They have an on-site Residential Hospital Unit, providing hospital-level and specialist care for residents whose needs change over time. The arrangement allows residents to remain in the same environment and maintain established routines and social connections, rather than relocating elsewhere for higher levels of support. Leaving a familiar place where you feel comfortable and safe can be hard late in life.
Staff said the model is designed to provide continuity of care, with services adapted to individual needs shared by residents and their families.
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