Age is no barrier to being the very best of friends. Just ask Richard Connolly and Ava McGuinness!
Richard, 81, is a resident at Balhousie Brookfield in Carnoustie, while Ava, 9, is the daughter of Senior Carer, Lisa.
From Richard’s first day at the home, they struck up a bond – and now they enjoy weekly chats on Ava’s regular visits to her mum’s work.
Richard enjoys hearing about Ava’s adventures at her dancing and gymnastics, while she describes him as one of her best friends.
Their friendship has benefited Richard, who is living with dementia, and he says it helps him feel connected to life outside the home.
Last week, Ava brought him a birthday present and a card she had made herself.
Lisa said: “Ava has always been confident and social around people, regardless of age, and as I’ve always worked in the care sector she has grown up around residential homes.
“They have such a close bond. Ava tells Richard her secrets, and he says he feels privileged that he gets to know them.
“In everything she does, Ava thinks about Richard – even when we’re out shopping, when she’ll tell me to get certain crisps because he likes them!
“When I ask her what she likes going to see Richard, she simply said, ‘he is one of my best friends’!”
Several studies have shown the benefits of having children around care homes. It can help boost residents’ confidence, increase communication and improve their memory, including among those living with dementia.
It also benefits the children as older people make great listeners and can pass on wisdom, while children who interact with seniors often have improved reading and social skills.
