Following the passing of the revered Ratan Tata, his remarkable friendship with Shantanu Naidu captured worldwide attention. As media outlets around the globe covered Tata’s legacy, their intergenerational bond stood out, symbolizing the beauty and impact of friendships that bridge generations.
As the adage goes, ‘Age is just a number’, intergenerational friendships happen between people of different age groups, so as to benefit both the young adults and the senior people. There is definitely a spark of connection when the modern mindset meets centuries of life lessons. While these connections can be deeply enriching, blending the wisdom and life experiences of one generation with the innovation and fresh perspectives of another, they also present unique challenges.
Let’s explore the benefits and challenges of intergenerational friendships and why they’re becoming such a powerful force for personal and emotional fulfilment in today’s world.
Enhances Emotional and Mental wellbeing – Intergenerational friendships enhance emotional and mental wellbeing of both youngsters and adults alike. While interacting with young children improves cognitive functions and mental sharpness in adults, it also provides children with a sense of security and comfort as they rely on personal experiences and good advice of the elders. The seniors often learn new skills or revive old hobbies that can be intellectually stimulating. The mutual support and care provides a nurturing environment for both.
Builds a Sense of Purpose in Life – Many older people lose their sense of purpose after retirement or when their children get busy with their own lives. Intergenerational friendships reinstate a sense of purpose as they can meaningfully contribute to the lives of youngsters in whatever way they can. Young children benefit from real life experiences and valuable advice of the seniors, who on the other hand feel joyous and content knowing that they have somehow added value to a life.
Combating Loneliness – Intergenerational friendships provide emotional support and companionship to elders when they need it the most. Not only seniors, but children who have very little social interactions with their own age group, due to some reason, also benefit immensely from such friendships. Whether it is just spending some time together, going for long walks or engaging in some activities, these mutual connections are fruitful for both.
Wrapping up
Young adults sometimes need emotional support and adults and senior citizens have both the inclination and time, so they easily fit together like a jigsaw puzzle. There might be a few challenges too, as they differ in their values and priorities but the fact remains that the benefits far outweigh these challenges.
