Caring and compassion – mixed with lots of fun

Arcadia News
July 1, 2023
by Mallory Gleich

Hospice of the Valley unveils intergenerational enrichment program 

Hospice of the Valley’s (HOV) Dementia Care and Education Campus helps people with all types and stages of dementia, providing support from diagnosis through hospice care. Located at 44th St. and Indianola Ave., this state-of-the-art campus offers services and education, focused on surrounding families with support. 

In addition to the Hospice Inpatient Home and Assisted Living Center, HOV also hosts an Adult Day Club to provide socialization for participants and give caregivers a break. 

One element of the Day Club is that participating members are able to socialize with preschoolers that attend HOV’s Child Care Center, which is operated by Prince of Peace Church. Throughout the day, groups young and old come together in a shared space for intergenerational enrichment.

“Hearing the joyful sounds of kids playing and laughing is uplifting. We play games, share snacks, dance, laugh, and most of all, appreciate what makes each of us unique,” Program Manager Michelle Bales said. 

“Every day, we encourage connection and watch the magic happen as organic moments of joy are created. We call each other neighbors, and just as neighbors do, we are bonding and building friendships.” 

HOV’s Dementia Team created the enrichment program.

“A third of our hospice patients now have a primary or secondary diagnosis of dementia, so there is no better time to focus on programs that provide knowledge, resources, encouragement and support for families caring for a loved one with dementia,” Director of Community Engagement Lin Sue Flood said. 

She explained that numerous studies have been done that show the benefits of intergenerational enrichment programs. Adults have a more positive outlook, decreased social isolation, and improved cognitive function and overall quality of life. Children gain self-esteem, self-confidence and learn to build friendships. Both groups report feeling valued, cared for and safe.

Participating members keep busy with their younger counterparts, thanks to myriad activities like art projects, dancing, singing, exercising, gardening, movies and story time. 

HOV sometimes provides pet therapy or hosts guests, like a musical cowboy on a real horse, petting zoos, and even a visit from a miniature therapy cow. 

“I feel alive. I love coming here. If I get up and I’m not feeling well, my daughter will say, ‘Do you want to go to the club’ and I say, ‘Of course, I want to go to the club,’” Member Judy Wind said. “This is the best thing that could have ever happened to me. It means everything. I love kids, and these kids keep you alive. When I found this place, I knew I was home.”

“It’s heartwarming to see how the adults and kids have come to care deeply for one another,” Flood said.

She continued, saying that the children benefit from what are essentially extra sets of grandmas and grandpas.

“Family members always share how the children bring happiness to their loved ones and renew their interest in life. The adults naturally engage with the youngsters and respond to their openness and enthusiasm.”

“My son, Jack, turned three in January, and his main request for who he wanted at his birthday party was for one of the ‘neighbors,’ Susan, to attend. She’s always loved kids, but she doesn’t have grandchildren. I see how happy it makes my parents to spend time with Jack, and it’s really nice to know that Susan is getting a little piece of that,” Danielle Dolan, Jack’s mom, said. 

Along with the intergenerational enrichment program, HOV’s dementia campus offers support groups, educational community classes, dementia resources and more.   

“Life doesn’t stop because someone has dementia. It changes. And with understanding and compassion, we believe it’s possible to still find meaning, purpose, connection and joy in living,” said Dr. Gillian Hamilton, Hospice of the Valley medical director.