Residential communities for older adults have started to embrace intergenerational programming. Researchers have found that getting older people and younger people together helps both groups develop better self-esteem and a positive outlook on life. What are the other benefits of intergenerational programs? Here’s everything you need to know to motivate you to nurture cross-generational connections.
What Are Intergenerational Programs for Seniors?
Intergenerational programs are more common than you think. You can find some activities sponsored by your residential community or local rec center, but there are even more opportunities organized by national non-profit groups. Intergenerational activities are simply coordinated events that involve older adults and young people. Some of these activities are recurring and some may happen once a year to coincide with a holiday or special event.
Many residential community organizations set up regular activities for children and young people to interact with older adults. This might involve a game night, a storytelling event, an arts and crafts activity, or more. These activities are perfect for inviting your grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, or connecting with a young volunteer from your neighborhood or local school.
If you’re looking for local organizations where you can volunteer or participate in intergenerational activities, check out Generations United for ideas, which is a national organization that supports local cross-generational initiatives. Most major cities and even many smaller towns have communities or organizations dedicated to developing this kind of programming.
How Intergenerational Programs Improve Health and Well-Being
You may wonder if intergenerational programs for seniors can live up to the hype when it comes to boosting health and well-being. Researchers have completed numerous studies on interactions between young people, children, and older adults, and have documented the results. The benefits of intergenerational programs are far-reaching.
Self-Esteem and Satisfaction
Aging isn’t easy. Your body changes, and you may feel like you lose some of your identity, especially if you aren’t as autonomous as before. This can lead to feeling low self-esteem and a lack of satisfaction with what life has to offer. Fortunately, spending time with young people and doing meaningful activities together can dramatically improve these issues.
Older adults who have regular interactions with children and teens have more confidence than those who don’t. They also feel more satisfied with aging, particularly because they feel like they have something important to impart to the next generation.
Physical Mobility and Fitness
Young people have a lot of energy. When you join an intergenerational program, it will get you up and moving. Research has shown that when older people participate in activities with children, they burn 20% more calories per week, fall less, and rely less on canes.
Increasing physical activity can help you manage certain medical conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. Exercise is also great for your joints, cardiovascular system, and digestion. Even doing something as simple as going for a walk or doing an outdoor scavenger hunt with a youth group can help you reach your weekly fitness goals.
Brain Health and Memory
Along with eating well, sleeping enough, and staying fit, challenging your brain is the best way to ward off cognitive decline. Spending time with young people is an effective way to engage your brain. You can learn new skills, pass down wisdom and expertise, and experience new things.
Research has shown that teaching someone else is a powerful brain exercise. So not only do you get to enjoy the companionship of a young person, but you also get a brain benefit.
Meaningful Relationships
One of the most powerful advantages of intergenerational programs for seniors is that you get to develop meaningful relationships. Older adults have much higher rates of experiencing isolation and loneliness, which can be detrimental to health outcomes. Overcoming this challenge isn’t easy, but it’s important.
It can be difficult to stay connected with friends and family, especially at times of year when people tend to get too busy to call or visit. Choosing to participate in intergenerational programs, whether as a regular volunteer or a casual attendee, can provide you with social interaction and meaningful communication. Building connections can improve your health outcomes over time, so it’s a worthwhile investment.
Mental Health and Attitude
More than two million people over 65 are living with depression. Unfortunately, only a very small percentage of older adults receive mental health care from a professional such as a therapist, counselor, or psychiatrist. Fortunately, there’s something that can address this crisis, and that’s intergenerational programming.
Intergenerational activities help improve mental health for older adults. Interactions with young people can help you feel recharged and ready to embrace the possibilities of your golden years. Plus, when you see the positive impact you have in a younger person’s life, it enriches your sense of purpose and self-value
Intergenerational Connections Benefit Everyone
You may wonder if you’re benefiting so much from interacting with young people at intergenerational events, then what are they getting out of it? Researchers have proven that everyone involved in intergenerational programming benefits. Some studies have shown that after receiving mentoring from older adults, young people are:
- 46% less likely to start illegal drug use
- 27% less likely to start drinking to excess
- More likely to trust in and communicate with their parents
- Less likely to experience depression
Teens and children benefit from the presence of older people in their lives. Not every young person has a grandparent around to guide them, and you can make a big difference in their life.
Your residential community may encourage you to volunteer to mentor youth or children. You can also find independent opportunities to support young people by talking to your local school boards and government officials.
Embrace the Benefits of Intergenerational Programs With a New Community
There are many reasons to consider moving to assisted living or an active older adult community. While making the transition is a big change and can be stressful, one of the great things is you can embrace the benefits of intergenerational programs. Contact us to learn more about the intergenerational activities and programs offered at all Elder Care Alliance communities.
