Intergenerational Relationships Among Older Adults

Both older adults and young children experience changes in development, need companionship, and have that inner desire to be understood. People within these two groups are connected by those at middle age bracket. In the contemporary society, we segregate or society buy age, this makes every generation to see itself as a separate entity. Intergenerational programs have the capability to bridge these perceptions. The number of aging people in this country is increasing at unprecedented rate. People seem to understand one another mostly when they are raised within same periods of time since their perception of the world and their values rhyme. To build a strong society, there must be a good intergenerational relationship among older adults, friendships, grandchildren, grand parents, and adult children (Harwood, 2007). …show more content…
This relationship helps older adults maintain their anatomy and improve trust among generations. This helps in understanding growth and development and the importance associated with old age like self-esteem and happiness. It is important to have close contact between older adults and the youth. This helps address the issue of loneliness in older adults and gives them sense of purpose making them less prone to mental illnesses. Through this link, children are able to understand and accept the elderly and this vitalizes and invigorates them. This closeness reduces likelihood of depression and isolation among older adults (Harwood, 2007). People within the age of 60 and above have reached the final stage of emotional development and they now tend to find meaning of their lives. Establishing connection between them and younger people gives them a great sense of