Generating Fun Times at Southern Cross Care

Residents at Southern Cross Care SA & NT Mount Carmel Residential Care are showing their passion for engaging today’s youth and sharing about art at the same time.

They’ve recently started going to Mount Carmel College to participate in art classes, while students from Our Lady of Mt Carmel Parish School visit Southern Cross Care for exercise classes with Health and Wellness instructors and residents.

There was a celebratory morning tea last week where the residents went to Mt Carmel College for the first time, getting their creative groove on to help create some wonderful art.

“Not all of our residents have grandchildren so it provides contact with younger people and strengthens community relationships,” said Leona Markham, Care Manager.

Several residents including Marj Molloy and Alice Byrth, a former student at the school back in 1945, went to Mount Carmel College and enjoyed homemade goodies baked by students and staff and then painted murals.

Year 11 students have been going to the residential care site and taking part in art and exercise classes over the four weeks in the lead up to a Reconciliation Week morning tea.

Southern Cross Care CEO David Moran said it was important for residents to remain connected with their community.

“Through the intergenerational program, our residents learn new skills while having the opportunity to mingle with younger people,” he said.

“We have traditionally had strong links with local schools and this is a great opportunity for our residents to share their stories, knowledge and skills and learn about what’s important to the students.”

“The program also allows residents to rekindle their interest in art and crafts while building relationships and interacting with students.”

Find out more about Southern Cross Care SA & NT.