Healing power of children for 'old age illnesses'

LETTER TO THE EDITOR: I watched with great interest the Sunday Night (Seven Network, 12/7) program about how elderly residents suffering dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are experiencing emotional and mental “transformations” at a nursing home in the US that has been combined with a childcare centre.

Planning authorities would do well to consider this.

As a former real estate agent with an interest in planning, I have long held the view this sort of thing would benefit communities.

Think about it — the number one complaint among residents at retirement villages and nursing homes is loneliness.

Having schools and daycare centres near retirement villages and nursing homes would encourage wonderful interaction between the generations — and help the younger generation to have greater respect and appreciation for their elders.

WATCH THE SUNDAY NIGHT PROGRAM: What happens when you mix a nursing home with childcare

While at it, why not place Men’s Sheds near schools so students with an interest in manual arts can be mentored?

The Bible sums up beautifully why we should do these things: “You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: Love your neighbour as yourself. The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments."

So simple. Loving our neighbour. It makes the world a better place.

Ray McNaught, Ardross