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May 5, 2023

The Wildwood Senior Living Encourages Intergenerational Relationships Between Children and Older Adults

Category: Senior Living

Author: Abby Smallwood, Resident Services Director

As we age, health becomes a major focus of our daily lives. We begin to think more about eating well, getting enough exercise, and keeping our minds active. But health is more than that – it also includes our relationships with others, specifically intergenerational relationships. 

According to an article in Press & News, there are the many benefits of intergenerational relationships between children and older adults.  

  • Children who spend time with older adults growing up are less ageist as they get older.  
  • It can prevent isolation and loneliness in older adults.  
  • It provides a perfect opportunity for young and old to learn from one another.  
  • It builds a stronger community.  
  • It gives older adults a sense of purpose and helps younger generations have a greater respect for and value of older adults.  
  • It helps keep stories and history alive within families and the greater community. 

At The Wildwood Senior Living, we promote intergenerational relationships in many ways! Intergeneration events are always well attended by our residents. Children bring such joy into our lives and especially the lives of older adults. Here at The Wildwood, we are continually working to expand our number of intergenerational events. Story Corner is an event we offer in which children can come into our community and interact with our residents through storytelling, crafts, and snacks! We host holiday parties and always invite children to these events. We recently took a bus full of residents to a local elementary school for a book reading and book donation drop off. We continually foster relationships with local schools and constantly encourage children to come visit in our building.

When observing the interactions between children and older adults, it’s easy to see how much older adults really have to offer to children, and vice versa! They share smiles, memories, information, and more. Interactions between children and older adults is mutually beneficial and joyful every single time! Children bring energy to our community and promote reminiscing and increase joy within our residents. My residents always look forward to seeing children and are extra excited for children-oriented events. Children can learn and grow from interactions with their elders and elders can do the same!

Each of our communities works hard to foster intergenerational relationships and memorable experiences.   

Source: Engage at Every Age: The benefits of intergenerational relationships – Senior Community Services    

The Wildwood Senior Living in Joplin, MO offers independent senior apartments, assisted living, and memory care with a variety of services and a range of floor plan options. Amenities include restaurant dining, 24-hour bistro, concierge service, housekeeping, events and entertainment, personal care, transportation services, and more. Centrally located near Freeman Health System and Mercy Hospital with convenient access to major shopping centers and attractions, including Twin Hills Country Club, Northpark Mall, Grand Falls, Wildcat Glades Conservation and Audubon Center – National Audubon Society, Spiva Center for the Arts, and George Washington Carver National Monument.

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