Vitalia Active Adult Community – Montrose 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 Vitalia Active Adult Community – Montrose, we promote intergenerational relationships in many ways! As the Resident Services Director, I am currently pushing to grow our Story Corner by inviting children of residents and staff. We are also planning lots of fun events, like scavenger hunts, and I plan to include the youngsters as well.

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. Intergenerational relationships are key to passing culture from one generation to the next. Bringing together individuals from different generations creates core memories for the youngsters and creates an opportunity for the older adults to relive some of the best times of their lives.   

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