Reasoning & Evidence
Leveraging universal design and accessibility in the creation and operation of community spaces ensures that everyone, regardless of age, health, or ability, can access and enjoy them – minimizing barriers to access and fostering intergenerational communities. Intergenerational communities place an emphasis on creating environments that support social interactions, cooperation, and collaborative exchange across generations through municipal planning, policy, and programming – also sometimes called age-friendly communities.(68) Research has found these communities to help reduce loneliness, strengthen empathy, foster social support, and build social cohesion for all ages by creating opportunities for meaningful social interactions and bridging differences across generations.(69–71) Similarly, another study found that conducting programs within community settings and utilizing existing community connections (e.g., schools, residential care facilities) demonstrated enhanced social health outcomes and increased social capital that leveraged staff trained in evidence-based practices that promote engagement and cooperation between different age groups.(72) In a report from Generations United, 92% of Americans believe that intergenerational communities can help reduce loneliness across all ages, yet only 26% (about one-quarter of the population) are aware of places in their communities that connect care and services across generations already.(73)
Stakeholders can play a role in identifying existing programs, building awareness, and connecting their communities to intergenerational resources available. Generations United offers an Intergenerational Program Certification that annually recognizes programs across the county for their excellence in bridging generations. Programs are scored on their demonstration of innovation, use of best practices, and effectiveness in the communities they serve. Leveraging universal design and accessibility in the creation and operation of community spaces ensures that everyone, regardless of age, health, or ability, can access and enjoy them – minimizing barriers to access and fostering intergenerational communities. Intergenerational communities place an emphasis on creating environments that support social interactions, cooperation, and collaborative exchange across generations through municipal planning, policy, and programming – also sometimes called age-friendly communities.(68) Research has found these communities to help reduce loneliness, strengthen empathy, foster social support, and build social cohesion for all ages by creating opportunities for meaningful social interactions and bridging differences across generations.(69–71) Similarly, another study found that conducting programs within community settings and utilizing existing community connections (e.g., schools, residential care facilities) demonstrated enhanced social health outcomes and increased social capital that leveraged staff trained in evidence-based practices that promote engagement and cooperation between different age groups.(72) In a report from Generations United, 92% of Americans believe that intergenerational communities can help reduce loneliness across all ages, yet only 26% (about one-quarter of the population) are aware of places in their communities that connect care and services across generations already.(73)
Stakeholders can play a role in identifying existing programs, building awareness, and connecting their communities to intergenerational resources available. Generations United offers an Intergenerational Program Certification that annually recognizes programs across the county for their excellence in bridging generations. Programs are scored on their demonstration of innovation, use of best practices, and effectiveness in the communities they serve.
Examples of Community Implementation
Dunedin, Florida: Initiatives such as the “My Favorite Older Person” essay contest and Intergenerational Week, among others, have become hallmarks of the city’s commitment to bridging the generational divide. Named a top intergenerational community by Generations United, Dunedin exemplifies a true intergenerational community through meaningful initiatives aimed at strengthening social connections and fostering a sense of belonging among residents of all ages.
Jenks, Oklahoma: Grace Living Center in Jenks, Oklahoma is co-located with Jenks Public Schools’ West Elementary. Here, intergenerational learning is a part of every day – where children and residents of the living community engage in conversations, activities, and learning experiences. In this vibrant intergenerational community, both children and residents alike benefit from shared interactions that foster social connection and belonging.
Rocky River, Ohio: Libraries, like the Rocky River Public Library, are often community hubs that can play a role in building community through intergenerational programming. Art-based programming connects children and, soon, an intergenerational gaming program will pair young people with older adults for Esports competitions and activities.
Reference: The SOCIAL Framework Report: The Built Environment Sector