Schools program to foster respect and tackle ageism

Catholic Health Australia, Meaningful Ageing, and Mercy Health Foundation are inviting schools to participate in a free educational program for secondary school students that aims to foster values such as empathy, compassion, and respect for older people.

Launching in October to coincide with key dates, including International Day of Older Persons and Grandparents Day, the Accompaniment Program ‘Learning about Ageing with Dignity through reflection and scripture’ offers a flexible curriculum that can be tailored to fit various schedules, ranging from standalone workshops to a week-long series.

Through reflection, scripture study, brainstorming, roleplay, and other interactive activities, students will explore themes such as ageing with dignity, respectful care, and the unique challenges faced by the elderly.

Participants will gain insight into the discrimination and stereotypes that older people encounter and learn how to become compassionate companions to seniors in their communities.

Additionally, students have the option to earn a leadership certificate by completing 30 hours of volunteering in an aged care centre or organising a school fundraiser to support Mercy Health’s Ageing with Dignity initiatives.

Mercy Health Foundation’s Chief Executive Officer, Rebecca MacFarling, says: “Discrimination against, and negative biases about, older persons are important issues in Australia, with more than 70 per cent of respondents to a recent survey agreeing that ageism is a serious problem for our country.

“Fostering a sense of compassion and understanding in young people is crucial to building a more inclusive and respectful society. This Accompaniment Program provides students with a meaningful way to engage with and support older members of their communities, and over the long term will also help tackle ageism.

“We are proud to collaborate with Catholic Health Australia and Meaningful Ageing on this initiative, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on both the students who participate and older people in our communities.”

Approximately 500 secondary schools across Australia are invited to participate in the program.

Click the link to find out how to join.