The Wellington 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 Wellington Senior Living, we promote intergenerational relationships in many ways! As the Resident Services Director, I am looking to host family game nights, pool parties, and even an Adopt-a-Grandparent program.

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.

Many children grow up without a grandparent or even a great-grandparent in their lives. Building intergenerational relationships is important to The Wellington, because it allows each generation to learn from each other and it gives our residents a sense of purpose, allowing them to express their values to a younger generation. Plus, listening to the stories of an older adult, from when they were the age of the children they are talking to, is important, because it allows them to pass down wisdom and information to the next generation.   

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