The Boulevard Senior Living – St. Charles 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. 

The Boulevard Senior Living – St. Charles is in the process of promoting our Story Corner initiative. Once a month, we hold a story time in the community where we invite resident and staff families. Intergeneration relationships are so important to our older adults, and they love to see little ones around the community. For Easter, we hosted an Easter egg hunt in conjunction with Story Corner and we had over 20 kids participate! Our residents had a blast watching the children in action. We also have little ones of residents who love to help and volunteer serving food at Happy Hour, assist with crafts, and visit with residents.

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. Connections between generations is important for both our older adults and children. Youngsters in the community bring so much joy to The Boulevard and keep residents young at heart. Children keep residents lively, their minds active, and shake things up.   

 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