Sometimes, the most powerful moments begin with something very simple. A conversation. At a recent COTA Tasmania Generations Connect: Tech Together session at OneCare Barossa Lodge, what started as a casual chat between Indie School Glenorchy student Gabby and resident Sue became a beautiful reminder of why intergenerational connection matters so deeply.
As part of the session, young digital mentors spend time with older Tasmanians, often helping build confidence with technology. But these sessions are about far more than digital skills. They are about connection, curiosity, shared stories, and learning from one another. During their conversation, Sue shared stories from her life and work, speaking fondly about her years as a seamstress and her love of sewing. She mentioned that she still had her sewing machine in her room, but since moving into residential aged care, it had not been used. That conversation stayed with the team.
Image: Sue & Gabby together, helping Sue getting back to her old passion of sewing
With the kindness of our community, fabric donations were quickly arranged, and the home helped bring Sue’s sewing machine into the next session so she and Gabby could spend time together doing something Sue truly loved. While there was a small setback when they discovered the sewing machine was missing its foot pedal, it did little to dampen the spirit of the day. Another machine is already being organised for the next session.
What mattered most was seeing Sue light up as she spoke about her passion, sharing her knowledge and experience with Gabby. The room was filled with laughter, storytelling, and genuine connection. Adding to the joy, the group also celebrated Gabby’s 18th birthday together, making the day even more special. Moments like these show the true impact of programs like Generations Connect: Tech Together. While technology is an important part of the program, the real magic often happens in the human connections that grow along the way. A simple conversation can reignite memories, rebuild confidence, create friendships, and reconnect someone with a sense of purpose.
Intergenerational programs matter because they remind us that everyone has something valuable to share, and sometimes, all it takes is someone willing to listen.