Prince George Duke of Kent Court opens its doors for intergenerational mother and baby group
16 October 2023
A group of kind-hearted mums have brought joy to residents at Prince George Duke of Kent Court, in Chislehurst by bringing their babies and toddlers to visit. The beautiful partnership has recently started a few months ago between the group of mums and the residents at the Home.
Baby Polly receiving cuddles from residents Dick Kingsland Edna Rockall at Home Prince George Duke of Kent Court, in Chislehurst.
Research has shown that for older people, engaging with babies and young children can help to increase wellbeing and reduce loneliness and depression. The benefits for young children are also increasingly being recognised. Childcare providers report increased confidence, less anxiety and better communication skills.
It is also thought that introducing intergenerational interaction at an early age helps shape more positive attitudes toward ageing as well as increase understanding and awareness.
Residents at Prince George Duke of Kent Court, in Chislehurst spending quality time playing games with Lennard.
Diane Connor, the Home’s Activities Coordinator, says:
Our residents can’t wait for the babies and toddlers to visit so they can have a cuddle and spend time chatting to the mums. The benefits of holding a baby for some of our ladies is hard to describe; they have a such a soothing and calming effect, and it also brings back memories of motherhood. It’s proved to be especially therapeutic for our residents living with dementia.
The mums have been so kind and really open to learning about people living with dementia. The intergenerational visits have brought a real energy to Prince George Duke of Kent Court,
she adds.
Among those visiting is new mum Kate Doughty. She said:
The partnership has been a wonderful experience. Being a new mum is very rewarding but it can also be challenging. Spending time with residents and sharing stories has been so uplifting and I look forward to our visits.
[Summary: A group of mums have brought joy to residents at Prince George Duke of Kent Court, in Chislehurst by bringing their babies and toddlers to visit.]
