CSN youth bring joy to Elspark old age home with heart-warming visit

In a heart-warming display of compassion, Community Safety Network (CSN) youth recently visited the Kowa Pienaar old age home in Elspark, spending a day engaging with elderly residents through conversation and shared meals.

The visit was part of CSN youth-led initiative to foster intergenerational connections. Marlize van der Merwe, from CSN, said the visit left a lasting impact on both the youth and the senior citizens.

Jayden Cockerell said the visit was eye opening. As conversations flowed, stories from different eras unfolded and they got to learn from the elderly.

“We came here thinking we would be the ones giving, but we left feeling like we had received so much more. Hearing their life experiences reminded us to be grateful for what we have and to value the people around us,” shared Cockerell.

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Another youngster who shared the same sentiments was Nathan Ackermann.

“Some of the elderly don’t have any family members coming to visit. Having us there, making time to assist them and talk to them, made their day special and they really appreciated us being there and we also enjoyed ourselves as we got to learn from them,” said Ackermann.

The youngsters said they will visit the home again soon as they saw the benefits of them being there.

The visit included youngsters assisting the elderly with their daily routines and handing over care packages.

“For many of the elderly residents, the visit was a refreshing break from routine and an emotional upliftment. Seeing the young people gave them life.

“Sometimes elderly feel forgotten, but on the day they were reminded that they still matter,” said Van der Merwe.

She said the visit was appreciated even by the staff members, expressing how valuable these interactions are in fighting loneliness and depression among the elderly.

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“The young people brought laughter and warmth, things no medication can provide. And that was what we wanted our young people to understand, that kindness goes a long way,” said Van der Merwe.

She said the aim of CSN is to bring back the sense of community and bridge the gaps that are missed.

”The visit also gave the young people a new lens through which to view aging and community.

“Many admitted that it was their first time stepping into a facility for the elderly, and the experience shattered some of their preconceived notions. It’s easy to forget that our elders were once young like us, full of dreams and energy.

“They still have so much to offer, like wisdom, love, and guidance. We need to make more time for them in our lives,” said Van der Merwe.

She also invited the community to offer support and assistance to the home.

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“Some elderly are in need of the basic bath soaps and tooth paste. If people can donate it would make a difference in their lives,” said Van der Merwe.

The group plans to return to the old age home regularly, aiming to form lasting relationships with the residents.

The visit has also sparked interest in community service among their peers, proving that acts of kindness, no matter how small, can make a profound difference.

Anyone who is interested in donating r supporting the home can contact Marlize van der Merwe on 082 762 7628.