Joy Henshaw, Registered Operations Manager at Wellbeing Care
With a focus on breaking down age-related barriers, reducing loneliness and promoting mental stimulation, intergenerational mixing has become a key technique for transforming care homes into thriving communities where connections flourish. I explore this further below as well as highlighting some considerations before such interactions take place.
Care homes provide a solution to the biggest hurdle of intergenerational mixing, which is getting individuals from all generations in one safe and inclusive environment. Interactions occur among care workers, residents, family members, and local organisations, of all different ages and backgrounds, on a daily basis. These connections are invaluable sources of enrichment that help to boost the wellbeing of all involved.
One of the biggest benefits of creating intergenerational bonds within care homes is the profound impact it has on addressing the issue of loneliness and isolation among the elderly. According to Age UK, nearly 1.2 million older people in the UK say they’re chronically lonely, while some 200,000 haven’t had a conversation with a friend or family member in more than a month. Therefore, these care home interactions can significantly help to lower this number whilst instilling a sense of purpose into the lives of care residents.
Without realising, intergenerational mixing happens internally at the care home between the residents and staff. The average age of someone needing care home support in 2022 was 84, whilst the average age of a care worker was 45, with the almost 40 year age gap offering a learning process that enriches both parties. Residents have a wealth of experience and can offer valuable life lessons for caregivers. Whilst, the younger generation can contribute their knowledge of modern technology and a changing society, creating a reciprocal exchange of knowledge.
Intergenerational connections also extend beyond the walls of care homes, with partnerships forming with the likes of local schools, scout groups, choirs and churches, to name a few. I recommend putting the message out there and contacting local organisations to see if they’re willing to collaborate on any projects, and it’s amazing how receptive people are.
Visits from younger individuals help to inject energy and vibrancy into the lives of residents —helping to dispel misconceptions about ageing and playing a pivotal role in shaping the attitudes of younger generations too. Exposing them to the realities of ageing promotes empathy, understanding, and respect for the elderly. This can translate to the younger generations being more patient with the older generations they come across in everyday life such as in shops or when they’re crossing the road.
While the benefits of intergenerational connections are evident, it’s essential to acknowledge the challenges that may present themselves in maintaining such relationships. The diverse needs of various age groups requires open communication and adaptability. It’s also important to examine the facilities and space you have available, to assess whether it is appropriate for intergenerational activities, especially if you’re inviting young children into the home. Whilst not to exclude anyone from the activities, closely supervising those with conditions where they may have difficulties with communication, reasoning, and visual perception, which could lead to aggression, like dementia, can prevent an outburst happening against someone they are paired with.
However, witnessing a resident’s face light up during such interactions outweighs any concerns or challenges. These moments alone are testament to the power of intergenerational connections to create camaraderie, and how important they are to incorporate into residents daily lives, and for a society as a whole.
In short, the narrative of care homes as solitary places lacking social interaction is consistently challenged by the intergenerational approach. By embracing this concept, care homes can redefine themselves as bustling hubs of life and laughter. It also helps to prove that care home environments are not defined by age, but by how you are able to enrich later life. As this approach continues to evolve, the way society views ageing and care will undoubtedly be reshaped, which is an exciting concept driven by the power of connection and compassion
