Intergenerational programs aren’t just for children—they are activities enjoyed by people of all ages. Programs can focus on an array of interests and come in a variety of formats, from arts and crafts to mentorships. There’s something for everyone involved in this intricate mix of people and interests.
Intergenerational activities bring together seniors and kids, promoting engagement between their age groups. Everyone should have the chance to make friends with people from all walks of life -- that’s why intergenerational programs between seniors and youth are so much fun!
In the lives of seniors and children, both today’s youth and aging adults, there exist opportunities for intergenerational activities. These are social or educational programs in which youth (elementary school through high school) and seniors connect through activities that help build their understanding of each other's world.
Benefits of Intergenerational Programs for Seniors
When seniors bond with kids, friendships are formed and barriers are overcome. Showing kindness to someone from a different generation makes you shine as a role model while helping your community.
It can be challenging to encourage our residents to step out of their comfort zones (and we can relate!). But according to a study in the Journal of Gerontology, intergenerational programs help seniors be more optimistic and experience an increase in activity and mobility. The study also showed that intergenerational programs help to resolve the pitfalls that can occur when seniors only interact with people their age.
Instead of feeling isolated or marginalized, seniors find themselves part of a supportive community that includes younger members. Younger members get to develop empathy for what their elders go through as they age, and they can learn how to be valuable additions to their future communities.
Intergenerational Activities at Pacifica Senior Living
Our community members and their new younger friends have formed bonds over activities like movie night, where they watch generational favorites like "Footloose" and "Karate Kid" on the big screen in Pacifica's movie theater.
On days when the weather is nice, youth participants and residents alike can head outside for games of horseshoes, croquet, or bocce ball—or even just to relax on chairs together while they chat about life and everything under the sun.
Final Thoughts
Overall, intergenerational programs are valuable tools for improving mental health, social engagement, wellbeing, and overall quality of life for those calling Pacifica Senior Living home. While they aren't a cure-all for seniors' ills or an everlasting solution to loneliness, they do allow seniors to connect with others through shared activities, making intergenerational programs a potentially invaluable service that is certainly worth considering.
Please contact us by phone or chat with us below to earn more about our intergenerational programs at Pacifica Senior Living.
