Fighting Ageism through Intergenerational Activities

Fighting Ageism through Intergenerational Activities

Intergenerational activities are social engagements that bring young people and older adults together, allowing the different age groups to better relate to one another, increase understanding and respect, and challenge ageism.

Ageism is often caused by a lack of understanding of other generations, leading to unfair misconceptions and bias. By engaging in activities with diverse age groups, older adults and younger generations alike can bridge that gap, discover common interests, and share their individual talents, experiences, and perspectives. Whether this means spending more time with family members of different ages or volunteering with older adults, intergenerational activities help all of us grow, learn, and build stronger communities.

Benefits of Intergenerational Activities

Studies show that interactions between young people and older adults boost the following:

• Self-esteem
• Communication
• Decision-making
• Memory
• Sense of purpose
• Feeling valued
• Bonding
• Empathy

Older adults experience a variety of cognitive benefits from intergenerational activities, including improved mood, self-esteem, and memory. They can also learn new skills from younger generations, especially if the activity involves unfamiliar technology, such as computers or smartphones.

Younger people get the chance to see the aging process firsthand, helping them learn empathy and reject stereotypes. They also have the opportunity to learn a variety of skills that may not be commonly practiced in their own generation, such as sewing, baking, or knitting. Every age group, from older adults to young children, can benefit from the sense of purpose and understanding that is fostered by establishing healthy and fulfilling intergenerational relationships.

Ideas for Intergenerational Activities

Gardening

Working in the garden is not only a great way for older adults to stay active, it’s a useful skill for anyone to learn! Teaching your grandkids how to grow their own flowers, herbs, or vegetables is a fulfilling hobby they can continue to enjoy throughout their lives.

Cooking

Younger people and older adults teaming up to practice the art of cooking and baking is mutually useful. Children and younger adults can benefit from learning new, essential skills in the kitchen, and older adults enjoy can enjoy passing down their expertise and recipes while also learning some new tricks.

Playing a game

Games are a great way to foster intergenerational relationships. Whether you’re volunteering with older adults at a skilled nursing care center or playing with your grandchildren, take the opportunity to share one of your favorite card games or board games one day and ask your opponent to choose the next one. That way, you can both learn new things and improve your communication by teaching each other strategy and rules.

Arts and crafts

Being creative is always a good option for people of all ages. Painting, drawing, and other crafty projects help children and older adults alike work collaboratively, improve dexterity and fine motor skills, and be expressive.

Interested in volunteering at Christian Health?

Volunteering is a great way to improve intergenerational relationships, make meaningful connections, and give back to your community. At Christian Health, we offer varied and diverse volunteer opportunities for adults and teens over the age of 13 who would love to make a difference. For more information, please contact Caroline Silva, Volunteer and Community Outreach Coordinator, at (201) 848-5797 or CSilva@ChristianHealthNJ.org.