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Life in Long Term Care

Senior Prom bridging generations at Southampton Care Centre

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High school grads and long-term care residents came together at Southampton Care Centre for an unforgettable celebration of music, memories, and connection. 

Location: Southampton Care Centre, Ontario

At Southampton Care Centre graduation season was marked by a tradition that goes far beyond the usual ceremonies. Instead of celebrating with their classmates alone, Grade 12 students from Saugeen District Senior School chose to share their milestone with a different group of seniors – residents of the home. 

Senior prom

Youth and long-term care residents come together for a party to remember

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In an event that has grown each year since it began in 2016, this unique “Senior Prom” brought together 17 graduating students and long-term care residents for an afternoon of dancing, laughter, and storytelling. Dressed in formalwear, students were paired with residents to enjoy a retro-inspired celebration that blended the energy of youth with the wisdom of experience.
With a taste of nostalgia and stories to share, Grade 12 students from Saugeen District Senior School in Port Elgin took a visit to a long-term care home to share a prom to remember with residents.
This year’s festivities featured 1950s-style flair - hot dog lunches, ice cream floats, and the timeless sounds of classic rock and roll. The event created a joyful atmosphere where memories were shared, new friendships were sparked, and generations connected in meaningful ways.
Moments like these reflect the mission of Jarlette Health Services to support purposeful living and build intergenerational relationships. For some students, the prom was a chance to uncover family connections within the home, while others left inspired by the stories and resilience of their dance partners.
With laughter echoing down the halls and residents still reminiscing about what may have been the “best senior prom yet,” this event was a reminder of the joy that lives at the heart of long-term care.