The Cumby Crew bridging the generational gap
- Categories Key things to help you everyday
- Date September 19, 2024
The social benefits of living in a retirement village are well documented across the sector, and for Village Professionals around the country – we are a part of it every day.
One standout example is the recent partnership between Year 5/6 STEM students from Mitcham Primary School in Kingswood, Adelaide, and the residents at ECH’s Cumberland Park Community Centre. Together, they dove into the world of augmented reality games.
Affectionately known as “The Cumby Crew,” this community centre is a joint venture between ECH and the City of Mitcham, where activities are held weekly to engage older members of the community.
At the centre of this transformative journey, a captivating STEM project was born with students creating games with older people in mind.
STEM refers collectively to the teaching of the disciplines of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. After two school terms, students then got to showcase their creations to the very people who might enjoy them in the future.
ECH Chief Executive Claire Scapinello said creating these meaningful connections within the local community was essential to overall health and wellbeing.
“Each week, the ECH Community Connections Team ensures bonds are built and friendships are formed to encourage participants to try new activities such as craft, macramé, art, sewing, cooking, gardening, or even music and dance,” Ms Scapinello said.
One Cumby Crew member said: “Today was absolutely fantastic. Five years ago, I couldn’t turn a computer on, but now I can do a lot more on it. For older people, I think they should get more involved and encourage them.”
Mitcham Primary School principal Scott Greenshields said: “The benefit for our students is engaging with senior people to showcase their projects and to give feedback that will allow them to look at their programs and adjust them accordingly.”
This project is a perfect example of how intergenerational activities can thrive in a retirement village setting. It’s not just about keeping busy; it’s about building relationships that benefit both the young and the young-at-heart.
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