Inter-generational programs, like the ones at the Leeton residential aged care facility, have been shown to help overcome age-related stereotypes and improve older people's mental well-being.

Assumption Villa, operated by Southern Cross Care (NSW & ACT), has been running such programs for years, connecting residents with schools and community groups to foster cross-generational connections.

"By inviting the children to visit the home, we want them to feel more comfortable interacting with older people and have a more positive view of the 'ageing process," lifestyle co-ordinator Sue Ryan said.

One long-running program is the weekly coffee shop, run by students from Parkview Public School. Students interact with residents, greeting them, taking their orders and serving the tables. The kids have fun doing this and enjoy mixing and chatting with the residents.

A small group from Good Start Early Learning Centre also attend one day a week and the two groups spend time interacting. Residents enjoy spending time showing the kids how to play games and doing puzzles.

These programs allow residents to feel they have a valued role in being able to nurture and contribute to the teaching of social and other life skills, which may benefit the children.

"I think the program we have with the kids is positive and it brings meaningful interaction between our residents and the children that visit," Sue said.

"It's really heart-warming to see it unfold. Some of our residents are separated by distance from grandchildren and great-grandchildren, so having the kids come and visit has been a really nice way to have more of those interactions in their lives.

"I believe we are building connections through these inter-generational visits."

Resident Don Kelly, who has been at Assumption Villa for 18 months, thinks the program is a great idea.

"The kids seem to enjoy themselves," Don said. "Personally, I love to see them brighten things up.

"We do a bit of drawing, colouring-in. Others get together and play games.

"They generally enjoy themselves very much and we enjoy having them."

Year 7 students from Yanco Agricultural High School also visit once a fortnight and interact with the residents, doing find-a-words and crosswords, playing board games and generally talking. Most come from rural backgrounds and enjoy telling the residents where they live.

The residents have even been invited to visit the school, which they are looking forward to.

"Reactions from the students have been really positive," Sue said. "Some remember a resident and will ask about them on their next visit.

"The residents love it too. Some ask before the day if the school kids are coming and get so excited.

"Sometimes a grandchild is in one of the school groups which is always very exciting for the resident."