Quinnipiac University students move into assisted living community to help seniors

HAMDEN, Conn. (WTNH) — Two Quinnipiac University students will have a different type of campus life this year.

They moved into Masonicare’s Ashlar Village, an assisted living community for seniors, on Thursday as part of the university’s students-in-residence program.

“It’s really nice, also, for the students, because a lot of them are going to be in different jobs that might work with this population,” said Jacqualine, Drake, the community’s recreation manager. “So, it gives them an opportunity to see it through a resident before they get the opportunity to serve them in their career.”

The program, which has been around since 2016, is considered the first of its kind in the nation.

Grace Miceli, who is majoring in occupational therapy, is already getting to use her skills.

“I do baking activities with them,” Miceli said. “It’s like an in-person cooking show. They love it. I teach them how to use their phone if they have issues bridging that gap.”

It’s a give-and-take experience for everyone.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.