Kingsland Walk 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 Kingsland Walk Senior Living, we promote intergenerational relationships in many ways! As the Resident Services Director, I am working to build intergenerational relationships in our community. We have the University City Children’s Center next door, and they love walking over to visit with us. The children bring holiday cards and sing special songs for our residents. We also continue to partner and foster relationships with Flynn Park School. Residents go to the school, read stories, and work with students on different special projects.

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. The smiles these meetings bring to our residents’ faces, and to the children’s, is so inspiring! A lot of our residents were former teachers in the area, and they really do enjoy seeing kids in the community. When youngsters visit the community, it reminds residents of their kids and sparks memories of the past and moments with their children.

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