Acorn Lodge Care Home is celebrating the unexpected yet meaningful friendship between 14-year-old Daniel Dominick and 77-year-old Linda Jones, a resident of the Nuneaton care home.
Daniel, a volunteer working towards his Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award, joined Adopt A Grandparent (AAG) with the aim of making a real difference.
With family members living abroad, Daniel understands how isolation can affect older people.
“My family lives in different parts of the world, so I know how hard it can be to stay connected,” Daniel said. “I wanted to offer companionship to someone who might be feeling lonely.”
Matched with Linda, a retired nurse with a passion for reading, gardening, and socialising, Daniel’s regular calls have brought a sense of joy and connection to Linda’s life.
Despite their 63-year age difference, the two have discovered many shared interests, from history and gardening to family stories.
“It’s lovely to talk to someone new, especially someone so eager to listen,” said Linda. “Daniel makes me feel like I’m part of the world beyond my doorstep. I really enjoy hearing about his school, his hobbies, and his family. It’s so nice to know there’s a young person who wants to hear what I have to say.”
Their weekly conversations have become a highlight for both.
“Linda has so many fascinating stories to share,” said Daniel. “I enjoy learning from her life experiences. I feel like we’ve become friends, and I’m happy that I can bring a little bit of joy to her day.”
Research shows that loneliness affects one in five older people in the UK, making these types of connections even more valuable.
For residents like Linda, these intergenerational friendships are key in reducing isolation and enhancing their well-being.
Shaleeza Hasham, CEO of Adopt A Grandparent, commented, “Daniel and Linda’s story is a perfect example of how meaningful, simple conversations can have a lasting impact. At AAG, we’re bringing generations together to share joy, stories, and experiences, creating connections that can transform lives.”
Jacky West, Home Manager at the Avery Healthcare-owned Care Home, added, “It’s wonderful to see Daniel and Linda form such a close friendship. This connection shows just how powerful regular, genuine conversations can be in supporting our residents’ emotional well-being. It’s been a real pleasure watching them grow this bond.”
Avery Healthcare, who operate Acorn Lodge Care Home, supports initiatives like AAG to continue to build meaningful connections and enhance the emotional and social well-being of residents.
To learn more about Acorn Lodge Care Home, click here or call 02476642680.
