ANNUAL CONFERENCE RECAP | 2018
The Benefits of Intergenerational
Programming and How to Cultivate
Programs at Your Organization
“When my son was in high school, he and a few of his band
mates, went to a local nursing home once a week to play music
and participate in other activities. They really looked forward
these trips,” reflected LeadingAge New York Member Services
Liaison Earl Gifford, after hearing this presentation. He continued,
“Intergenerational programming brings seniors and kids together to
form fun and meaningful relationships.”
Seniors and young adults have so much to learn from each other
and the result of these interactions can be magical. Intergenerational
programs are fun for everyone concerned and pay positive
dividends for the lives of those involved as well as the community
in general. “We are beginning to see more intergenerational
programs starting in facilities across the state,” noted Betsey Biddle
of Andrus on Hudson during the roundtable discussion, The
Benefits of Intergenerational Programming. This session centered
around members sharing what they have done at Andrus and other
locations. The programs ranged from having high school students
running the facility’s gift shop to starting elementary school projects
with residents teaching students.
Older adults learn new innovations and technologies from their
younger counterparts and older adults who regularly volunteer
with children and teens burn 20 percent more calories