I have always enjoyed listening to stories of my grandparents and other older adults. In fact, hearing stories about the courage of leaving home to an unknown place, the humility of starting over again and the resiliency of failing at one thing and trying another has taught me so many life lessons. They are pearls of wisdom that are worth sharing to the next generation. They are lessons that can only be learned through years of experience, not just schooling and youth. Combining the two are a powerhouse for getting things done in an efficient but thoughtful way. This is why I believe the world would be a better place if there were more Intergenerational living.
Imagine primary schools that combined classes with senior care communities. While the younger students are learning the basics in math and English they are also learning social skills and grit from their grandfriends. The older adults are part of cultivating the newer generation and making a difference with their knowledge and life stories. In return, what they learn from their younger friends is a sense of wonder seen through a different lens that brings energy which helps keep up with the constant movement of the changing world that can be intimidating. It can also give a sense of control and ease anxiety when someone has more of a comfort level of the environment around them.
One of the attributes stated in the Blue Zones, by National Geographic Fellow and Best Selling Author, is Purpose. Blue Zones, are the five places in the world where people live the longest. Those living in those areas know how important it is to live for something bigger than themselves. I think contributing to a community where those that are older can nurture and help ease the growing pains of those coming ups and the younger generation can help their Elders with a capital E keep their pride and their dignity by understanding the importance of their contributions. The connectivity of Intergenerational living, I believe, is what gets us up in the morning and makes us feel alive.
Imagine primary schools that combined classes with senior care communities. While the younger students are learning the basics in math and English they are also learning social skills and grit from their grandfriends. The older adults are part of cultivating the newer generation and making a difference with their knowledge and life stories. In return, what they learn from their younger friends is a sense of wonder seen through a different lens that brings energy which helps keep up with the constant movement of the changing world that can be intimidating. It can also give a sense of control and ease anxiety when someone has more of a comfort level of the environment around them.
One of the attributes stated in the Blue Zones, by National Geographic Fellow and Best Selling Author, is Purpose. Blue Zones, are the five places in the world where people live the longest. Those living in those areas know how important it is to live for something bigger than themselves. I think contributing to a community where those that are older can nurture and help ease the growing pains of those coming ups and the younger generation can help their Elders with a capital E keep their pride and their dignity by understanding the importance of their contributions. The connectivity of Intergenerational living, I believe, is what gets us up in the morning and makes us feel alive.
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