Age Is No Barrier to Friendship at Baptistcare William Carey Court

Forming friendships with some of Busselton’s most senior residents has proved to be a rich learning experience for a group of 17-year-old Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander boys from the Clontarf Foundation. The eight boys who were in the South West for a Leadership Camp spent the day at Baptistcare William Carey Court Residential Care in Busselton undertaking voluntary maintenance work and playing bingo, chatting and sharing afternoon tea with some of the elderly residents.

While it might seem that the 50 plus age difference between the teenagers and seniors might be an impediment to conversation flow and connection, the opposite was true with both generations being entertained and enthralled with each other’s stories and energy.

Clontarf Foundation’s South West Regional Manager, Michael Lay, said the Baptistcare William Carey Court visit gave the boys the opportunity to relate to an older generation on a social level.

“Some of the boys said the time spent at Baptistcare William Carey Court was the best part of their three-day camp,” he said.

“Coming from a culture that respects elders, the boys were in awe listening to tales from the past.”

Research shows that when generations come together, everyone can benefit with clear and positive outcomes for all.

Seniors have a lifetime of knowledge to share and the interaction between generations can help young people to develop respect and empathy for the older generation.

Ros McDonald, Baptistcare William Carey Court’s Lifestyle Coordinator said it was rewarding to see how much the residents enjoyed the visit and she was impressed with the boys’ care towards the seniors taking part in the activities.

“Some of our residents don’t have family nearby and thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to talk one on one with the boys.”

“It was wonderful to see the smiles that the young ones bought to the faces of our residents.

“They also gave our much-loved timber benches in the outdoor area a new lease of life which will be a permanent reminder of their very special visit.”

Baptistcare has more than 45 years’ experience providing care, support and residential options for Western Australians in their senior years.

Clontarf exists to improve the life skills, education, self-esteem and employment prospects of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young men and by doing so equips them with the skills needed to participate meaningfully in society.