Seniors get a preview of fall fashions, a chance to interact with kids
Friday September 7, 2007 -- Natalie Miller
From backpacks on wheels to cowboy boots, seniors got a taste of what kids are sporting these days courtesy of a recent fashion show at a Haileybury long-term care home.

The fashion show was an intergenerational program spearheaded by Kathy Ruddy, Temiskaming Lodge’s activity director.

“It was very uplifting,” says Ruddy about the Aug. 16 event.

“Kids do that to seniors. The more we have children involved, the better for our residents.”

Children and grandchildren of staff members modeled the latest back-to-school fashions for about 60 residents. The children ranged in age from five to 13 and were decked in a variety of outfits, modeling two to three each.

“The kids were really dressed to the nines. It was so cute. The residents just loved it.” She says residents were particularly impressed with the latest backpack fashion which involves carting kids’ gear on wheels.

Ruddy says the fashion show was a self-esteem booster for the kids as well, noting one little girl progressed from having her mom walk with her to making the trek herself. It’s also a good way to introduce children to the long-term care environment, she notes.

“It’s an upbeat experience for the kids to come into the nursing home. It’s not as scary for them.”

The activity director of the 80-bed long-term care home notes volunteers and community involvement helped make the show, also held once a few years ago, a success.