Rock Creek 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 Rock Creek Senior Living, we promote intergenerational relationships in many ways! As the Resident Services Director, I invite children to visit our community with several different opportunities. We have two different daycare centers that visit and play games, color, and read with us. Our community hosts Story Corner, where Boy Scouts join in, along with other children from the community, and we have a 5th grade volunteer who loves playing games with our residents.

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. There are several benefits to having intergenerational events. Residents light up upon seeing the kids walk through the door. They enjoy being around inquisitive children, who, oftentimes, get the residents to think outside the box. It also gives them an “excuse” to be silly and act young again. They are two completely opposite generations, that grew up in completely different ways, but at the same time, have so much knowledge and wisdom to pass along to one another. Our intergenerational events have our residents reminiscing for days to follow.   

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