Vitalia Senior Residences at Westlake 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 Senior Residences at Westlake, we promote intergenerational relationships in many ways! As the Resident Services Director, I am working to continue to grow our Story Corner program. We invite grandchildren of residents, employee’s children, Primrose School in Westlake, and the daycares and schools of our employees’ children. Our last Story Corner had so many little visitors, it was such a fun and special afternoon!

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. I love to watch my residents light up when children come to visit. There is some kind of magic when the young and older adults get together. It brings my residents out of their shells and encourages socialization with older generations by the children. The joy that intergenerational programming brings to both young and old is magical. It brings the residents back to a time when their children were young, and they were raising their own kids. It prompts memories and stories like, “When I was your age…” or “I remember when….” It is so important to encourage these interactions!   

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