When older adults have trouble connecting with younger generations, it can be hard for them to feel like they’re part of the world. On top of that, loneliness can make them even more isolated and helpless. It’s essential to understand what’s going on with older adults so we can help them feel less alone and more connected. In this article, we’ll discuss strategies for helping old adults connect with younger generations, including exploring their past; getting them some help with technology; being a virtual companion, and asking questions honestly (and kindly).
Explore Their Past
One of the best ways to help older adults connect with younger generations is by exploring their past. Whether you ask them about their childhood, their parents or grandparents, or even their first job, home or car—it’s all fair game when it comes to questions about the past.
The reason why asking these types of questions can be so beneficial is because it allows for a more intimate interaction between yourself and your loved one. It also helps encourage them to share stories from their life that they may not have otherwise shared with others in the room.
Get Them Some Help With Technology
Getting your loved ones to try technology is an easy way to help them connect with younger generations. We’re all familiar with this scenario: you have an older family member who isn’t used to new technology, and they don’t understand how it works. But it doesn’t have to be that way! Whether they’re tech-savvy or not, there are plenty of apps out there that can help them connect with friends and family, stay connected when they travel home for the holidays or even show their kids what life was like before cell phones were invented (and all of its benefits).
Digitally Reminisce
Social media is one of the best ways to get older adults talking with younger generations. Use photos and videos to connect with them on Facebook, Instagram, or other platforms. You can use pictures to help them remember their past and share memories that may not come up in conversation. For example, you can use old family photos from when your grandparents were young or even before they were born! You can also use these images to prompt them to share their present lives. They might be happy about their children’s accomplishments, show off some recent purchases they love, or even a new hairstyle!
Finally, you might want to ask questions about the future: where do they see themselves living? What are some of their hopes for retirement? These types of prompts will make it easier for them to speak openly with young people who have less life experience than them (and may be able to relate better than someone closer in age).
Be A Virtual Companion
You can help your elderly parents connect with younger generations by getting them to join social media. For example, if your father loves cooking and baking, maybe he should start a blog about how to cook or bake something special for the holidays. It will also make him feel like a kid again because he was always interested in sharing his cooking and baking knowledge with others. This will allow him to build relationships outside of those close by—a major plus if loneliness is becoming an issue for your parents!
Conclusion
We hope these suggestions help you get to know your loved ones better and make their lives more fulfilling. It can be challenging for old people to find new friends, but there are ways to make the process easier. As always, remember that communication is key!
