Guest Blog: The Power of Intergenerational Programs
The following is a guest blog from Anthony Cirillo:
A wonderful young freelance writer, Alexis Bonari, made a contribution to my boomer blog recently about intergenerational programs. She cited several programs that I thought you might like to know about.
Neighbors Growing Together - a wide-ranging program at Virginia Tech that combines its Adult Day Services program with the Child Development Center for Learning and Research. Activities like taking walks together, making music, engaging in creative crafts, and playing games characterize this program and enable its participants to enjoy the company of a distinctly different generation while learning and growing to appreciate one another.
The Intergenerational Outdoor School Program - Penn State brings fourth graders and older adults together for four days to learn about nature and caring for the environment. Discovery walks help kids learn to appreciate the environment, while senior citizens enjoy sharing their knowledge with a younger generation.
The Florida Intergenerational Orchestra of America - musicians aged 5 to 88 to participate in performances that bring generations together in a unique and rewarding way.
Alexis cited the UNSECO Institute for Education, which noted that when kids are deprived of relationships with older individuals, they can develop negative attitudes toward aging. The Harvard School of Public Health-Met Life Foundation Initiative on Retirement and Civil Engagement had this to say about such ventures: "Community based initiatives that bridge the generations should receive special attention. The programs build community by integrating the old with the young, transmitting knowledge and experience to future generations and reinforcing the value of people of all ages. Studies have found that young people in such programs show measurable improvements in school attendance, attitudes toward school and the future, and attitudes toward elders. Adult volunteers report substantial benefits to themselves: the satisfaction of sharing their experience, feeling useful. And giving back to the community."
So what are you doing to bridge the generations at your facility?
Anthony Cirillo, FACHE, ABC is a speaker, health care consultant, senior advocate and blogger. He consults with long-term care facilities and is available for management retreats and association keynotes. He is the author of "Who Moved My Dentures?" His company, Fast Forward Consulting empowers organizations to change the healthcare experience and leverage it in their marketing. Hear him speak at AHCA in October. More at http://www.4wardfast.com/ and http://www.anthonycirillo.com/.