By Tiffany Lukk
Bringing old and young together can provide numerous mental and emotional health benefits and serve as a potentially unexpected source of learning opportunities — for everyone involved.
According to a 2019 survey, 37% of adults have at least one friend who’s at least 15 years older or younger than them. Many meet organically — through work, their neighborhood, mutual friends or other places in their community.
Not only can having friends from different generations provide comfort, happiness and all the other benefits that come from friendships in general, but it can also positively impact your health. As we head into the holidays — a time when get-togethers can include family members and friends from all age groups — let’s look at the ways that intergenerational friendships can benefit our lives.
1. Decreased impact of lonelinessEmbrace chances to spend time with younger people in your community. According to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, about 1 in 4 adults over the age of 65 are socially isolated.
Social isolation can lead to an increased risk of stroke, dementia and depression. Socializing with younger friends can lower adults’ stress hormones and increase dopamine production. In addition to feeling more relaxed, decreased stress can also give your immune system a boost.
2. Improved brain functionWhile reduced stress and loneliness alone can help improve cognitive function, interacting with and learning from younger people can also lead to learning new hobbies. Keeping things fresh can help your brain stay active and improve your mental health, says Harvard Health.
3. More life experiencesWhen stories are exchanged between people of different age groups, everyone involved is learning how to see the world in a different light. Sharing your own life experiences can help you feel more connected to your community. And who knows — that could lead to a few more intergenerational friendships!
