A cross-generational program called Nannies & Grampies continues to be a big success here in Saint John.
The program brings children from the Origins Day Care Centre to the Rocmaura Nursing Home every Friday to spend time with seniors.
Avril Toner is the Executive Director of Operations for Origins and says the program has been running for over five years now.
Toner said when the program first started she thought the seniors would benefit from the program more, but admits the children have also benefited from it immensely.
The children bring a lot of laughter and excitement to the nursing home when they visit.
Toner says the children have also gained relationships with some of the residents and are quick to give them a hug, and a high-five before they leave.
She says the program breaks down the barriers of an elderly person who might be confined to a wheelchair, or might not have verbal skills any longer.
The children learn to look right past the wheelchair and see the person.
Since the program started five years ago, the Loch Lomond Villa has implemented an intergenerational after school program as well.
