Families are busier than ever these days. It can make scheduling quality time together with Senior loved ones quite challenging. 

Once you do manage to arrange some Family time, you might find yourself struggling to come up with outings and activities that everyone enjoys.

Intergenerational activities are the backbone of strong families and societies, however, so it’s more than worth it to make the effort.

For kids, time spent with older adults offers a multitude of benefits. From increased self-esteem to better social skills and healthier attitudes about aging, the advantages are clear. 

For seniors, the benefits are many and varied, too. A greater sense of joy and fulfillment and better physical well-being are among the top benefits of spending time with younger generations.

September is Intergenerational Month, so it is a good time to think about strengthening family bonds across the generations.

Ideas for Promoting Intergenerational Family Bonding

If you’re wondering what you can do to build strong family ties, here are a few ideas.

1. Attend Cultural Events Together

Some things never change, no matter what age you are. Enjoying the sounds of a live orchestra, the sights of original artwork, or the beauty of a professional dance performance is enriching, rewarding, and uplifting, no matter what generation you belong to.

2. Take a Class Together

Families that learn together also grow together. Kids feel empowered when they’re learning alongside the adults in their lives. Seniors benefit when they’re able to share their wisdom and knowledge on a subject.

3. Play Music Together

If you are musically inclined, there’s no better way to form strong bonds than by creating music as a family. Even if you aren’t, you might enjoy learning to play an instrument together.

4. Grow a Garden Together

Gardening is a healthy hobby to begin with, but consider the added benefits of sharing the task with other generations. It’s an ideal way to form deep family ties. And gardening can be adapted for senior safety. Raised beds and container gardening are two such ways.

5. Practice the Art of Conversation Together

One of the lasting traditions of older generations is the tea party. Of course, these days it might be conversation over coffee, but the idea is the same. Enjoying a calm moment or two when everyone can share, laugh, and learn from one another is priceless.

Living With Legacy at Sunrise Senior Living

The Live with Legacy program at Sunrise Senior Living offers residents the chance to share their experience and wisdom with other generations. Learn more in this video with the Sunrise Activities and Volunteer Coordinator, Morning Carson.

Want to see these connections in action?

Come take a tour of a Sunrise community near you!