Photo Credit: © Can Stock Photo Inc. / HighwayStarz
As I grow older, I’m reminded of something my mother has always said, “Mother Nature and Father Time, two forces within our universe you can’t regulate.” Life expectancy in the U.S. has increased from an average of 46 years in 1900 to more than 77 today. “Every 7.5 seconds another baby boomer turns 50,” says Sandy Markwood, CEO of the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging. By 2030, analysts predict more than 70-million Americans—twice the number in 2000—will be 65 or older. At that time, older adults will comprise nearly one in five people.
The goal as recreation providers is to enhance the “quality of life” for the communities we serve through programs and events for residents of all ages. However, outside the occasional “Family Night,” seldom are there activities that provide the opportunity for youth to intermingle with more seasoned residents over a longer period of time.
Intergenerational programming (IP) is now providing that opportunity. IP includes activities designed to bring together individuals of different ages to promote interaction. More specifically, IP is designed to connect youth to older adults.