The Importance of Socialization Between the Elderly and the Youth

by Chris Sloan, ALM – Operations Specialist, AZ

While you are out in public, have you ever noticed the unspoken draw that young children have towards the elderly? And vice versa?  Just last weekend while out for breakfast, I observed an older gentleman and a toddler waving to each other and playing peek a boo, as if no one else was around. Both of their smiles were so genuine and heartfelt.  Intergenerational socialization is something we all benefit from and should be encouraging. 

For the youth, interaction with the elderly can help with communication skills, empathy, respect, and patience just to name a few.  The younger generations learn to accept their own ageing and decrease the fear of the elderly. The elderly can fill a void that the younger generations may be experiencing, if they do not have grandparents to engage with.  The elderly are not in a hurry, they are there in the moment and draw strength from it.  This is not something that the younger generation often gets to be a part of today. But it is something we all could benefit from, once we learn that this is acceptable.  Who better to learn from than the ones who have already been through more than we could ever imagine.  

For the elderly, interaction with the younger generations help with a decrease of social isolation, create a sense of belonging and self-worth, as well as help build self-esteem.  Being a part of the younger generation’s day-to-day activities help the elderly stay active and alert. The elderly tend to overcome their own ailments when they are involved and serving the youth.  One could say it makes them feel younger, more vibrant. 

Intergenerational socializing helps reduce stress for both the elderly and the younger population.  They both learn to feel as if they have a purpose and are valued. With mental health issues on the rise, anything that could help increase one’s feelings of purpose and value is a win-win for all. 

Many cultures revere the elderly, they are treated with the upmost respect and are valued.  Often times the elderly offer the wisdom of a lifetime of challenges and successes. They offer solace and calm. Knowledge of the past can be brought to the younger generations to learn and grow from.  

Intergenerational socialization is a benefit for all.  The youth help the elderly understand the modern ways. Open their minds to things the elderly could never have imagined that would occur in their lifetime.  They can help them with the digital era, so the elderly population is less isolated, being able to face-time or text your grandchildren is an amazing benefit. The seniors who embrace and accept the digital era benefit tremendously.   

The current elderly population have been through the most life altering changes than any other generation before us. Knowing this we owe them the time and respect to understand that.  We should all desire to learn and respect all that our elderly population has endured. 

In conclusion, the intergenerational socialization of the youth and the elderly is nothing but beneficial for all.  We all can learn and grow from each other at any age.  Knowledge of the past will help us bring success in the future. The bonds that the elderly and youth can establish together are immeasurable.