Intergenerational relationships are defined as two people who have a bond with each other and a 15+ years of age difference. Intergenerational relationships are beneficial for both the younger and older person and at Scalabrini, we try to ensure our residents are able to build and foster such bonds.
For the older individual, intergenerational relationships have two main benefits:
- Intergenerational relationships shape their approach around everyday ageing
- Intergenerational relationships influence how they feel about societal ageism
Shaping Everyday Ageing
Intergenerational relationships have a significant positive impact on shaping everyday ageing of the older individual due to:
- Younger people are typically being more optimistic
- Younger people are typically future focused
- Younger people help increase both physical and social activities which improves wellbeing
Influencing Societal Ageism
Intergenerational relationships have a significant positive impact on influencing societal ageism felt and experienced by the older individual due to:
- Younger people encouraging ‘active ageing’ where a full and present life is still maintained
- Younger people help expand the world of older people by teaching them new things (eg. Technology)
- Younger people help to keep older people mentally sharp
The younger person in the relationship helps to combat negative feelings or fears around getting traditionally older. This helps the older person break certain stereotypes on what being older looks like as more than just a physical number of age.
The younger person in the relationship helps to combat negative feelings or fears around getting traditionally older. This helps the older person break certain stereotypes on what being older looks like as more than just a physical number of age and fulfil a desire to create a legacy and impact with stories and lessons of their past. In an aged care setting, these benefits are important to improve and maintain a high quality of life and positive outlook for the elderly within themselves and for their future.
At Scalabrini, we understand the significant positive impacts of intergenerational relationships. Our goal is to help residents age successfully, meaning with dignity, control and respect. Scalabrini residents gain the benefits of intergenerational relationships from not just loved ones, but also from their bonds with staff and volunteers as they spend time together partaking in wellbeing activities.
You can read more about our Gold Soul program here: https://www.catholicweekly.com.au/at-23-katie-finds-life-in-a-nursing-home-is-full-of-joy/
