April 17, 2025
Intergenerational Activities: A Path to Connection and Mental Well-Being
During the month of May, we celebrate Older Americans Month, honoring the societal contributions and experiences of older adults. It's the perfect time for us to come together as a community to share intentional moments of connection.
As we age, our mind and body can experience a host of changes. We may also experience changes to our routines, leave our homes less frequently, and experience fewer moments of social interaction. These factors combined can result in social isolation and feelings of loneliness.
In our series on Enhancing Mental Health and Combatting Isolation, we conclude with Participating in Intergenerational Activities. Intergenerational activities bring various age groups together, uniting us in engaging experiences that foster connection and mental well-being.
The Benefits of Participating in Intergenerational Activities
The following are some of the many benefits of participating in activities with people of various age groups:
Mental Stimulation. Engaging with other generations can spark new interests and hobbies, providing mental challenges that help keep the mind sharp.
Emotional Support. Building relationships with younger individuals can help combat loneliness and help you expand your support network.
Enhanced Self-Esteem. Sharing experiences and knowledge boosts confidence and fosters a sense of purpose for all involved.
Social Skills. Regular interaction with diverse age groups improves communication skills and social engagement.
Community Building. Strengthening ties within the community creates a more inclusive environment for everyone.
Intergenerational Activity Ideas and Resources
The following are some resources to get involved in intergenerational activities across the Central Texas community:
Reading and Mentoring
The Austin Bat Cave hosts an Intergenerational Storytelling Program in which teens and older adults can use journaling, oral storytelling, letter writing, and visual art to build understanding, empathy, and meaningful connections between generations.
Music Classes or Performances
Austin Soundwaves supports the Mariachi Para Todos program, a free intergenerational community program for students of all ages (10-55+) and all levels. The program offers hands-on experience in playing traditional mariachi music while focusing on artistry and community building.
Gardening
The Soul-to-Soul Intergenerational Gardening Initiative was created by the Alliance for African American Health in Central Texas. This initiative invites three age groups including young people (students aged 12-17), adult lead gardeners, and senior citizens to participate.
Arts and Crafts
El Buen Samaritano developed Juntos: Sharing Our Stories intergenerational summer program with a mission to foster a stronger sense of engagement and connectedness between middle school-aged teens and older adults. The two-fold program equips teens with valuable life skills and provides older adults with a platform that combats loneliness through digital literacy and digital photography.
Other Examples of Intergenerational Activities
Cooking and Meal Preparation
You don’t have to join a community program to participate in intergenerational activities. You can visit or invite family, friends, and neighbors over to spend quality time cooking together. If you don’t cook any more, consider sharing your favorite recipes with others.
Puzzles and Board Games
Gather at the table for some engaging puzzles and board games. The challenges presented in these activities can keep your mind sharp as well as foster good conversation.
Volunteer to Combat Older Adult Isolation Today
With many families on vacation, our homebound neighbors can face increased isolation during the summer. Meals on Wheels Central Texas volunteers bring daily nourishment and essential social connection to homebound neighbors in need.
Apply to volunteer today!
You can also contact the Volunteer Recruitment Team by emailing volunteerwithus@mowctx.org or by calling 737-218-4142.