A seniors’ residence in Quebec has revitalized its Christmas celebrations through the enthusiastic involvement of two university students. Their engagement has led to lively festive dinners, storytelling, and gift exchanges, fostering intergenerational connections. Residents express renewed energy and joy, viewing the students as family. Through organized activities and discussions on relevant topics, the initiative promotes companionship and community, supported by a collaboration between the residence and Laval University’s intergenerational cohabitation program.
Revitalizing Christmas Celebrations at Seniors’ Residences
The holiday spirit has gained new life in a seniors’ residence in Quebec, thanks to the vibrant energy brought by two students in their twenties. Their collaboration with residents during the Christmas season has transformed festive dinners, storytelling sessions, visits from Santa Claus, and gift exchanges into an exhilarating celebration.
Gabrielle Villeneuve, a resident who recently celebrated her 86th birthday, shared, “It brings a breath of fresh air. […] Every time I interact with these two individuals, I feel rejuvenated.” As a former educator, she appreciates the opportunity to share her wisdom with younger generations through the students’ presence.
Intergenerational Connections and Enhanced Engagement
The Christmas festivities are just one example of the renewed vibrancy within the residence, according to director Alan Burns. “It’s like a motivator. We’ve noticed a significant boost in involvement and energy among residents, staff, and students,” he explained, highlighting that the students played a key role in extending the Christmas celebrations over several days.
This sentiment resonates with many residents. Évelyne O’Neil, a 71-year-old former civil servant, noted, “It helps us stay informed and exposes us to new discussions.” Similarly, 79-year-old Francine Audet, a former daycare educator, expressed, “It keeps us connected. I see them as my grandchildren.”
Alicia Danielewski, a master’s student in social work, reflected on her own experience moving to the residence last August. “It’s like I’ve gained 70 grandparents,” she chuckled, enjoying the companionship of the seniors.
Her classmate, Thomas Prévèreau, a psychology undergraduate, echoed her sentiments, saying, “It’s truly fantastic; you have to live it to appreciate it. The people here could easily be in my social circle; we share the same values and concerns. […] We’re really not that different.”
In addition to facilitating discussions on relevant topics like the status of the French language in Quebec and the American elections, the students organize various activities, including nail care sessions, crafting workshops, and game nights featuring puzzles, bowling, and pétanque. “We realize that we also enjoy puzzles and shuffleboard; it’s incredible, shuffleboard!” Thomas exclaimed with laughter.
For the past three years, Résidence Les Jardins Saint-Sacrement, a non-profit organization, has partnered with Laval University to implement an “intergenerational cohabitation” program. Funded by the Ministry of Culture, this initiative encourages intergenerational exchanges by providing housing and meals for students in return for 10 hours of volunteer work per week. In total, 15 seniors’ residences across Quebec benefit from this enriching program, including three in Quebec City.