The Benefits of Intergenerational Connections for Well-Being

By: Erika Purington, Chief Executive Officer at Allies in Aging

My favorite season is here, friends! Happy Summer!

I like to read about impactful things and tend to go down a rabbit hole when I find a topic particularly interesting. Recently, my reading obsession has been about the critical benefits that come from blending people from different generations for social, civic and business opportunities. A growing body of research in public health, psychology, and aging studies shows that strong intergenerational connections are associated with measurable benefits for both older and younger people.

For older adults, social connection is a predictor of health outcomes. Studies that I have checked out have linked meaningful social engagement to lower rates of depression, reduced cognitive decline, and even longer life expectancy, with loneliness shown to carry health risks comparable to smoking and obesity.

For younger people, interactions with older generations add up to increased empathy, improved emotional regulation, and a stronger sense of identity and belonging.  All very positive!

Sharing meals, coffee conversations, a walk, or volunteer opportunities are all natural ways to create these life-supporting connections. The impact builds individual capacity as well as community cohesion.

Find yourself a cross-generational friend! The health and wellbeing benefits can’t be beat.

P.S. I am always up for a coffee chat!

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