Youngsters bring smiles to continuing care residents

Visits impact seniors, kids and staff

Story by Kirsten Goruk; photo by Carmen Bacon

You’re never too young to realize that you can make a difference in someone’s life.

That’s the lesson Greely Road School students in Fort McMurray are learning thanks to some field trips to the Northern Lights Regional Health Centre’s continuing care unit.

Carmen Bacon, kindergarten teacher at Greely Road, explains that the idea came from a series of discussions she and her husband have had about seniors care. Bacon’s husband, Dave is Vice-Chair for the Wood Buffalo Health Advisory Council.

“We thought it would be a neat idea for our students at Greely Road to be able to be a part of something in terms of service, citizenship in our community, and empathy,” she says.

“Seniors are sort of an out of sight part of our population and we don’t see those residents out and about, so it draws attention to that and helps spread some cheer.”

In December, students aged kindergarten to Grade 3 went on their first visit, where they sang holiday-themed songs and gave each resident a handmade craft.

“We were just really proud of our students and how they took that on. They felt really good about themselves as well and the staff really enjoyed it,” Bacon says.

The students returned in April to share their love of literacy. They recited poems, songs, read books and provided each resident with a bookmark from the school.

Greely Road School isn’t the only one that sends students to the healthcare facility. Natalie Foy, a recreation therapist who works with the continuing care patients, explains that at the start of each school year, Alberta Health Services staff reach out to school administrations to encourage partnerships.

“The interaction with the kids always brightens our residents’ days; they’re so full of life. It’s definitely something they look forward to and it keeps their good moods for hours afterwards,” Foy says.

“I always think how people feel matters the most. If they get some happiness, excitement or they’re able to laugh with the students, I think that boosts their emotional wellbeing.”

Bacon hopes to see the visits turned into a yearly practice. As one of the smaller schools in Fort McMurray, she appreciates being able to share the great work the staff and students are doing out in the community.

“It shows our students that even as young as those in kindergarten, that you can make a difference and make somebody’s day a little better.”