The Future of Aged Care? Research Shows Kids & Seniors Thrive Together

A groundbreaking study into the emotional impact of a multi-generational approach to aged care has shown remarkable benefits not just to elderly residents but to children in early learning centres co-located within integrated aged care precincts. The University of Melbourne study looked at the innovative JELLYFISH Intergenerational Program at TLC’s Mordialloc healthcare precinct, which features an aged care home and a co-located TLC Early Learning Centre, as well as other health, fitness, and lifestyle amenities.

JELLYFISH – which stands for Joining, Enriching, Learning, Laughter, Young, Fun, Intergenerational, Supporting, Happiness – is an academically designed program of shared activities that bring the elderly and the very young into daily interaction. The University of Melbourne study showed that the program delivers significant positive outcomes for both children and elderly residents.

TLC Healthcare CEO Lou Pascuzzi welcomed the research findings as a powerful validation of the company’s world-leading approach to multigenerational care. He said TLC has already delivered three integrated sites in Victoria, with more on the way.

“We have known for some time the benefits to the elderly of remaining connected and engaged to younger generations, but what is really encouraging is that these benefits also go to the kids - and by extension their families - including better learning, empathy, connection, and wellbeing outcomes across generations.

“For too long society and government have viewed aged care through a spectrum of somewhere we deposit our elderly and where their social engagement is limited to others of a similar age. Apart from some family visits and the occasional excursion, most aged care residents are largely out of sight and out of mind as far as the wider community is concerned, which is a real shame – and of course COVID did not help.

“This research demonstrates that the JELLYFISH program helps overcome that sense of isolation and disconnection in ways that benefit more than just the resident.  This is exactly what I wanted to achieve when I fostered the intergenerational concept. We are incredibly proud of the impact the JELLYFISH program has had on participants, bridging generational gaps, and addressing social isolation in our communities.

“These findings validate our commitment to promoting learning, empathy, and emotional wellbeing through intergenerational connections. They also guide us as we expand these programs to create environments where everyone can thrive.

“By redefining aged care and early education, we aim to improve the quality of care and deliver lasting benefits to residents, families, and the wider community,” he said.

About the study

Tricia Eadie  Director of  the Research in Effective Education in Early Childhood (REEaCh) Centre at the Faculty of Education, The University of Melbourne, said the study examined the program’s impact on emotional wellbeing, empathy development, and children’s learning outcomes, uncovering compelling evidence of its transformative potential for participants of all ages. Data was collected through direct observations, participant interviews, and surveys from families and staff.

“The findings highlight the profound impact of intergenerational programs like JELLYFISH, particularly in bridging generational divides when children and residents may lack access to familial relationships such as grandparents or grandchildren,” she said.

Key findings from the study include:

• Enhanced Emotional Wellbeing and Engagement: Intergenerational activities facilitated emotional connections, improving engagement and wellbeing for both children and residents;
• Development of Empathy and Respect: Families observed notable growth in children’s empathy and respect for older generations, as meaningful relationships developed through the program; and
• Positive Impact on Children’s Learning and Development: Teachers reported enriched learning experiences for children, supported by intentional planning and purposeful interactions during the program.

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