‘Bonjour, ça va?’ is the phrase ringing in and around Didsbury as residents at Belong Morris Feinmann care village prove you’re never too old to learn something new by partaking in French lessons designed to boost brain health and foster companionship.
The older community at the village, typically aged 80 and older, have been immersed in all things français, speaking, singing and even acting out their joie de vivre as they get to grips with a departure from their mother tongue.
Under the tuition of language teacher, Liz Syed of Languagility, the participants are tutored gently, learning via interactive games, live music, entertainment and even adopting a touch of Parisian style, donning berets and playing games of Pétanque, the country’s version of bowls.
Angela Luckett, experience and cultural coordinator at Belong Morris Feinmann, said: “The goal isn’t to achieve fluency; it’s about a sense of achievement and the chance for collaboration, as well as stimulating our residents’ senses – all to enhance their overall wellbeing. It’s certainly supported their self-confidence over the past few weeks.”
The French sessions form part of Belong Morris Feinmann’s experiences programme designed around its customers’ preferences. Upcoming events include a pottery throwdown, and live entertainment from classical violinists, a ‘60s tribute act, and visiting piano lounge.
Angela added: “It’s been great fun. We’ve had much reminiscence of holidays and trips abroad and everyone has delighted in learning together. You really are never too old to have a go at something new – that’s very much our mantra, here.”