Tienen (Brussels Morning Newspaper): Final-year students, like Lore Schemans, care for elderly residents at a center, helping with daily activities and providing companionship. Teacher Karolien Fourie highlights the program’s goal of building friendships and improving social skills between generations.
Final-year students have recently started working at a care center, where each student is assigned to care for one elderly person for the week. They spend all their time with their assigned person, helping them with morning routines like washing and sharing meals. The students also join in daily activities at the center. In the evening, they assist the elderly in getting ready for bed and providing care throughout the day.
How do young caregivers like Lore Schepmans enhance seniors’ lives?
According to Student Lore Schepmans, the elderly residents enjoy the young caregivers’ company. The interaction brings positive energy to their lives, and many elderly people feel refreshed by being around young people. This program gives students valuable hands-on experience in caregiving while creating a special bond between the generations, offering companionship and emotional support to the elderly residents.
Students spend a week at the care center to learn how it operates, according to teacher Karolien Fourie. She says the students like talking to the elderly and understanding their needs. They help with caregiving and also build friendships through conversations. The students collect memories from the elderly to create a life book at school. The goal is to help both generations improve their social skills and feel connected. They will also visit the elderly throughout the school year to keep their friendships strong.
