This graphic from Generations United presents compelling demographic data that prompts us to reconsider how we design our communities with an intergenerational lens. The question we need to ask is, are we being mindful and deliberate in constructing neighborhoods and cities that cater to the wellbeing of the shifting demographic landscape?
In 2024
41 million people in America are 65 years and older
74 million children and youth (ages 0-17)
2030
72 million people will be over the age of 65
80 million children and youth (0-17)
Why is this conversation about Intergenerational Wellbeing important?
In his 2017 Harvard Business Review article, Vivek Murthy highlighted the epidemic of loneliness despite our increased connectivity. He emphasized the role of work in exacerbating this issue and stressed the importance of fostering genuine social connections. Loneliness isn't just a bad feeling; it significantly impacts individual and societal health, increasing the risk of anxiety, depression, heart disease, dementia, stroke, and premature death. We, as human beings, crave connection, and we are stronger together. How can we cultivate harmony, foster relations, and improve communication between generations to combat loneliness?
When we talk about Intergenerational work, our workplaces are a prime example.
Currently we have 4 to 5 generations working under one roof at any given company. The American workplace is going through a generational shift. Millennials (born 1980-1994) are now the largest generational workgroup, followed closely by Gen X (1965-1979) and Baby Boomers (1946-1964). In the Federal workplace, Gen X still holds an edge, but the percentage of Millennials continues to grow. Understanding the differences between these groups is as important as ever.
“Generation is one way to understand peoples’ life experiences and what makes each of us who we are. Aspects of a person, such as life stage (such as becoming a parent) or military service, first-generation college, living abroad, first language learned, or where we grew up are all within us. Learn about people and accept that human beings are formed by many influences. Respect personal boundaries, and don’t accept your first impression as fact.” - FELTG Instructor Susan Schneider
HelpAge International's #OlderNotOver campaign aims to change perceptions of life after 60. By 2030, one in six people will be over 60, and in countries like Japan and Italy, this figure rises to one in three. Yet, stereotypes and systems have not kept pace with this changing demographic. If more people recognized that we're #OlderNotOver, we could create a world that works for all ages. This video by HelpAge International highlights the untapped potential of older workers due to age-related hiring biases. How can we create opportunities for older workers to share their knowledge with future generations?
A lack of adequate social connection has profound costs to our individual and collective health and well-being. In light of the growing crisis of connection, the Foundation for Social Connection, Harvard University’s Human Flourishing Program, and Healthy Places by Design, with support from Einhorn Collaborative have developed the Action Guide for Building Socially Connected Communities.
The #Action4Connection toolkit is well designed and action oriented. They have developed the toolkit for local change makers and leaders, and it clearly says, "this guide will help you create tailored social connection strategies for your community. It includes a stepwise process to engage partners and community members, identify priorities, create a plan, and measure results. We recognize that change is not linear, and communities should visit and revisit steps in an order that will be most helpful to them. The guide also includes research-backed resources and promising strategies for community connection.
We invite you to use this guide to bring members across your community to the table, design solutions, implement an initiative, and track lasting change for social connection."
Intergenerational practice aims to bring people together in purposeful, mutually beneficial activities which promote greater understanding and respect between generations and contributes to building more cohesive communities.
The ultimate goal is to create harmony, foster relations, and build better communication between generations.
These conversations about Intergenerational Practice are crucial, especially given the changing generational landscape. Planning for our built environment and considering the needs of all inhabitants are essential for sustainable infrastructure.
Every one of us can contribute to this shift. From demanding park benches in neighborhoods to advocating for age-friendly features in buildings, we can all play a part. Creating programs that facilitate interaction between different age groups, such as seed exchanges, book reading programs, or intergenerational field trips, can foster connections and build stronger communities.
Let's continue to share and discuss creative and effective ways to connect generations, making the world a better place for everyone, regardless of age.