The Indispensable Intergenerational Connection

American cultural anthropologist and author Margaret Mead once said that “connections between generations are essential for the mental health and stability of a nation.” She is absolutely right.

What I’ve found through my visits to senior homes is that even though many years may come between our respective life experiences, we are all much more alike than we think. Sure times have changed, but we have common values that bond us together: a love for family, a need for friendship, a desire to be seen and, yes, a deep rooted appreciation for music. I can recall a conversation I had with Carol, an 83 year old resident who told me she went to a performing arts high school and was interested in hearing about the productions I had done at school. We talked about the nerves that came with auditioning, the late night rehearsals, and the feeling you get when you first step on stage for an opening night. We shared stories and I saw myself in her, as she did in me. I could imagine her stepping on stage as a 17 year old feeling the same way I do. This, I believe, is what makes us human: the ability to relate, connect and share our journeys.

The beauty of intergenerational relationships lies in the exchange of wisdom, experiences, and companionship. Seniors, with their wealth of knowledge and stories, can offer invaluable insights to younger individuals. Likewise, younger generations bring energy, enthusiasm, and a fresh perspective into the lives of seniors, revitalizing their spirits and fostering a sense of joy.