Bridging Generations in the Netherlands
Mental health issues have become a critical issue across all age groups in the Netherlands. The mental health services available are extremely overburdened, with wait times often exceeding six months. There is a scarcity of genuine human connection that is pushing people into mental health crises and loneliness. To address this challenge, The Responsibles Foundation has launched our intergenerational program in the Netherlands “Shared Wisdom”.
Shared Wisdom is an intergenerational program in the Netherlands to help reduce loneliness and connect generations. Loneliness is an ever-spreading issue in the Netherlands, that affects people from all ages and backgrounds.
While seniors are particularly vulnerable, young and middle-aged adults are increasingly reporting feelings of isolation and mental health struggles. Therefore, the need for an initiative such as “Shared Wisdom” in response to these challenges, have become a necessity to foster meaningful connections between senior citizens and young and middle-aged adults.
Why Shared Wisdom?
- Social isolation and loneliness affect over half of Dutch seniors and nearly 30% of the population over 15.
- Many young and middle-aged adults’ face uncertainty, emotional struggles, or simply lack substantial social bonds.
- Seniors possess life experience and stories that can provide guidance, support, and hope to others, yet often lack opportunities to share them.
Our intergenerational program in the Netherlands “Shared Wisdom” aims to bridge intergenerational gaps, offering young and middle-aged adults a place to seek advice, companionship, and perspective from senior citizens, while providing senior citizens renewed purpose and a sense of belonging.
Shared Wisdom Approach
Shared Wisdom aims to foster confidential, face-to-face conversations in public spaces, such as libraries and community centres across The Hague and neighbouring regions. Young and middle-aged adults who are struggling with personal challenges, or simply seeking connection will be able to have meaningful conversations with one of our senior citizens.
Senior Citizens will have a platform to share their experiences and offer guidance and perspective. We aim to have volunteers from different backgrounds to represent diverse perspectives. This initiative is not meant to substitute professional mental healthcare; referral protocols will be in place for attendants who have deeper mental health needs.
What Makes Shared Wisdom Unique?
- Intergenerational exchange: This initiative is built on mutual benefit; senior citizens are active participants and advisors, not recipients of care.
- Inclusivity: Volunteers and participants come from all walks of life, including various migration backgrounds and ages.
- Accessibility: Meetings are held close to home in safe, accessible community spaces.
- Early prevention: Friendly conversation and mentorship can address loneliness before problems escalate.
Ways you Can Support Shared Wisdom
Join us as Pillars of Responsibility
- Take part in intergenerational meet-ups
- Share experiences, skills and life lessons
- Help build a bridging and connected community
We are Looking for
- Senior Citizens — who want to share their stories, wisdom, and life lessons.
- Young and middle-aged Adults — who want to connect, learn, and bring fresh energy.
Join us
Other ways to join
- Refer someone: If you know a young and middle-aged adult struggling with loneliness or life’s challenges, encourage them to join.
- Donate or help fundraise: This initiative depends on community support for volunteer expenses, venue costs and outreach.
- Partner: we are open for partnership with community organizations and local businesses for possible collaboration.
- Spread the word: Share our story, especially with those who don’t use social media. Visibility in the community is vital.
Join us today and be part of the movement where wisdom meets growth.
