RESIDENTS of Abbeyfield Retirement Home have enjoyed another visit from young children and their parents as part of the ‘Playtime Exchange’ initiative from Abbeyfield and Dan’s Den at Christchurch, the not-for-profit soft play centre in Ilkley.

Such is the success of the visits, they will now take place every month, giving the old and the young the opportunity to enjoy “playdates” together with craft activities, games and singsongs.

These play sessions will alternate between taking place at Dan’s Den and at Abbeyfield.

With research showing that loneliness is as harmful to our health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, the aim of the initiative is to bring generations together and to play a part in reducing social isolation both for the elderly and for parents of young children. It also improves mobility for the Abbeyfield residents and a welcome change of scenery.

And the visits are certainly proving to be beneficial and appreciated by everyone involved.

Lauren Mcdonnell from Dan’s Den said: “It’s so heart-warming to see such lovely interaction between the little ones and Abbeyfield residents at the playtime exchanges. There is a 100-year age difference between the youngest and oldest member of the group which is amazing. We love seeing everyone sharing so much fun and laughter together and being engaged by the activities and the company! Some of the residents are retired teachers and they really light up around the children.”

All children and their parents are welcome with the next ‘Playtime Exchange’ taking place on May 9 at Dan’s Den. Please see their Facebook page for all the details. Dan’s Den is also encouraging participation from school age children.