An article in the Monitor on Psychology (2024) advocated for intergenerational relationships because they are helpful for all ages, young and old. In early 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General called loneliness and isolation a public health crisis. Multigenerational interactions can make an important contribution toward addressing this crisis. These relationships can include family members, friends, neighbors, club members, fellow students, and colleagues. For example, the Sesame 3G Mentoring program created three-generational trios. A teen would lead a Zoom discussion with a preschooler, and, afterward, the older mentor would debrief the teen.
Research supports the benefits of intergenerational collaboration. There is evidence that every age group gains from intergenerational programs, such as mentoring, community service, and developing an effective workforce. To illustrate, children in elementary schools who are assigned an older adult make both academic improvements and social gains with fellow students. Middle schoolers make gains in these areas as well but also have improved family relationships and less depression. Their adult partners have decreased depression, more general life satisfaction, improved cognitive functioning, and generally better heath.
Young and old can learn from each other. Young people can hear about the challenges older ones have faced and come through. Older people can learn about contemporary issues and come more into the present. Research does show that intergenerational collaborations improve the mental, physical, and behavioral heath of their participants,.
REFERENCE: Stringer, H. (2024). Joining the generations to change the world. Monitor on Psychology, March 2024, pp. 56-63.