With the anticipated growth of the global senior population, combined with the rise in the incidence of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), there’s never been a better time for innovative solutions to address the social needs of seniors.
One new solution, in Dutch nursing homes, was to integrate the need for university student housing, with the growing demand for caregivers in Holland. Approximately 250 university students volunteered to spend time with 500 seniors (50% who have dementia) in over 10 residential care programs since 2011.
Research Based Senior Socialization Program
The program, called “Humanitas Deventer’s” exchange program, is a researched-based operation, aimed at helping to reduce isolation and loneliness in seniors with AD. Studies have shown that improving socialization helps the elderly maintain emotional well-being, while potentially increasing the life span of seniors (particularly those who live alone).
The program offers free rent for students in exchange for their caregiving services (30 hours each month). Young students have much to share with senior adults, such as new technology, online email programs, social media, Skype and even some art skills. The program requires that students teach seniors with AD some of these modern skills.
Research studies on the student program have not yet been implemented, but the program is said to be extremely positive. Helping people with AD helps the younger generation to connect with seniors. It is also said to stack the odds in favor of them continuing to be involved in volunteer endeavors later in life.
Reading Program in the UK
“The Exeter Care Homes Reading Project” (in the UK), is another innovative program involving student volunteers who spend time with seniors in residential care facilities - particularly those with dementia.
The reading project involves students who go out into the community and visit with senior residents on a regular basis. The students read poetry, plays, and short stories, while spending time conversing and interacting with the seniors. “We believe that something as simple as giving time to others can have a profound effect on their quality of life, dignity, and happiness, and we aim to do this through sharing literature and talking with them,” said a Care Homes Reading Project spokesperson.
The reading project started in 2011 in the English department at Exeter University in the UK. The project was initiated by Dr. Johanna Harris, English Lecturer. Over a hundred students have volunteered each year since the program’s inception.
Studies on Dementia and Poetry
Research has shown that many people with dementia draw comfort and reassurance by listening to a person read poetry. This is thought to result primarily from hearing (and reciting) familiar verses. Those who benefited most from poetry readings included the participants who learned the poetry lines by heart when they were younger.
Bridging the Generation Gap
Not only does the program benefit seniors who are involved, students are said to take away some valuable lessons as well. Volunteer students say they have learned about the past generations’ love for reading, and how literature stays with a person for a lifetime. The shared reading experience also helped the students bridge the gap that oftentimes keeps the younger and older generation from connecting.
Learn more about Dutch Students socializing with seniors in nursing homes by viewing the video:
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