What are Intergenerational Connections?

Humans are social animals. Together, across generations, we have collectively developed language, science, technologies and formed cultures. Our legacies are what we transmit and pass down across generations. The importance of intergenerational relationships is their potential for generative creativity and transformational emergence.

Connections between young and older adults are beneficial for both. Older adults life experiences enable them to serve as role models for youth. Engagement with youth provides older adults with a sense of purpose and meaning.

Intergenerational connections are vital for societal development. Intergenerational connections are also important for the development of individuals, providing, meaning, and purpose.

Life long learning is enhanced by the multiple perspectives brought together in intergenerational relationships.

"Connections between generations are essential for the mental health and stability of nations." - Anthropologist Margaret Mead

Prosocial Ecopsychosocial connections are needed to address the complex problems we face, such as: Climate change, social unrest and the loss of meaning.

Long term thinking across 7 generations inspires all to become good ancestors to future generations. It is vital to bring this into awareness at a very young age and for it to be modeled and demonstrated by older adults.