The Township Senior Living Encourages Intergenerational Relationships Between Children and Older Adults

As we age, health becomes a major focus of our daily lives. We begin to think more about eating well, getting enough exercise, and keeping our minds active. But health is more than that – it also includes our relationships with others, specifically intergenerational relationships. 

According to an article in Press & News, there are the many benefits of intergenerational relationships between children and older adults.  

• Children who spend time with older adults growing up are less ageist as they get older.  
• It can prevent isolation and loneliness in older adults.  
• It provides a perfect opportunity for young and old to learn from one another.  
• It builds a stronger community.  
• It gives older adults a sense of purpose and helps younger generations have a greater respect for and value of older adults.  
• It helps keep stories and history alive within families and the greater community. 

At The Township Senior Living, we promote intergenerational relationships in many ways! As the Resident Services Director, I invite children to many of our events that we hold including Sunday Brunch, Story Corner, Easter events, Girl Scout Troop, Fall Parties, and crafts. We like to have staff bring their children to join us also.

When observing the interactions between children and older adults, it’s easy to see how much older adults really have to offer to children, and vice versa! They share smiles, memories, information, and more. Building intergenerational relationships is so important right now because so many of our residents don’t have family living close to them. So, to be able to have the connection with children in our surrounding community makes our residents feel needed and it brightens their day. The residents just beam after interacting with the children.

Each of our communities works hard to foster intergenerational relationships and memorable experiences.   

Source: Engage at Every Age: The benefits of intergenerational relationships – Senior Community Services