Just because you’re getting older doesn’t mean you have to stop learning. That’s the ethos behind Learning for the Fourth Age – a brilliant social enterprise in Leicester that uses volunteers to provide learning opportunities for older people in social care.
I joined in with one of their recent painting and craft sessions at Agnes House – part of Wyggeston Hospital, which is celebrating its 500th birthday this year. The residents told me how much they enjoyed taking part, and the volunteers said they loved giving something back to the community too.
It’s really important that care in residential homes, and in people’s own homes, helps keep older people active, stimulated and engaged. Involving local people as volunteers can make a big difference and its something I would like to see more of in future.
