Community is Connection Across Generations
What is the Power of Community?
Digitalization and widespread internet access have transformed how we connect, making connectivity easier than ever in today’s fast-paced world. Since we are connected at the ease of just using our fingers and at the comfort of our houses, why are social isolation and loneliness troublesome existences? Is it because, the online world represents an unrealistic view of the daily actualities of life, that many of us can no longer relate to? Or is it because online connections are so intangible, resulting in a lack of trust? Whatever the correct answer might be, one thing is certain, social isolation and loneliness have become silent, while they are pervasive challenges, across all age groups.
The lack of social connection and loneliness pose significant risks for individual health and longevity; such as, increase risk for premature death increase risk for anxiety, depression, and dementia. Social isolation is exacerbating loneliness pushing us into finding solutions. Fortunately, the solution lies close to home: in the strength of our communities, and the bonds we forge across generations, reflecting the power of community.
Why Social Connections Matter
- A study of The Times found that seniors, whom they called “super-ager octogenarians” with sharper memories and healthier brains have all one thing in common, an active social life.
- A survey of 2000 UK people concluded that meaningful social connections are fundamental to us as human beings. They improve the sense of well-being, contribute to quality of life and have important physical health benefits. Because meaningful relationships often act as a buffer to loneliness, especially at points of transition in people’s lives.
- In a reviewed article, Holt-Lunstad concluded that social connection has a protective effect on health and longevity and, conversely, that lacking connection is linked to risk.
Intergenerational Programs: Community in Action
According to Holt-Lunstad, humans are social animals; therefore, being part of a group is adaptive for survival. Worldwide, numerous initiatives have been implemented to foster connections between generations and to capitalise on the resulting advantages of the power of community.
Some of these initiatives include:
- The AARP Foundation’s Experience Corps: places older volunteers in schools as literacy tutors. They contribute 6–15 hours a week, to help students improve academically; resulting in increased mental and physical health.
- The REPRINTS: is a program in Japan, where seniors read picture books to children. The program has promoted neighborhood trust and builds social capital across generations.
- Nesterly: pair older homeowners with younger renters, creating affordable housing solutions and meaningful companionship. Many seniors has reported feeling more connected; while younger renters are benefiting both socially and academically.
- Kairos Alive: is an intergenerational dance and storytelling nonprofit. Their mission is to unit older adults (including those with Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s) and younger participants through performance, building community, healing, and engagement.
The Responsibles Foundation Making a Difference
Our mission is to address global challenges and make a social impact through ownership and responsibility.
Join us in our journey to realize the following:
- Host long-term intergenerational programs
- Support older adults in connecting digitally
- Design shared spaces and events
- Elevate storytelling and public participation
Social isolation and loneliness may be pervasive, but they are not inevitable. Communities, especially those interwoven across generations, are powerful vehicles for connection, wellbeing, and resilience. Whether through storytelling, creative collaboration, digital outreach, every interaction is able to strengthen meaningful connections and foster well-being.
Visit our website to learn more about our work, see how you can get involved. Together, we can create spaces where everyone is connected.
Resources
- Friendship, not fitness, linked to sharp memory in later life
- Social Circle: The age where you’re likely to have the most friends – and how many friends the typical adult has
- Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation
- Why Social Relationships Are Important for Physical Health: A Systems Approach to Understanding and Modifying Risk and Protection
- AARP Foundation
- Reprints
- Nesterly
- Kairos Alive
