How communities worldwide are embracing seniors to build stronger connections
The aging process is a universal human experience, transcending cultural boundaries. However, perceptions of older adults vary widely across different communities and throughout the world. In some cultures, older adults are revered for their wisdom and experience. In others, they are marginalized.
Increasingly, communities in every corner of the planet are actively embracing older adults, both to support those who are in their golden years and to create the conditions in which seniors can continue contributing to society. These communities are pushing back against the misguided idea that permeates so much of American culture in particular: that independence is the greatest virtue. In fact, communities and people are at their strongest when they are connected.
What are age-friendly communities?
Age-friendly community initiatives cast this false narrative aside by focusing on removing barriers for older adults, promoting health and well-being, and maintaining physical and mental capacities throughout the life course — all in a way that keeps seniors connected to the network of people and organizations all around them.
The benefits of age-friendly communities
The benefits of embracing age-friendly communities are vast, both for seniors and the community as a whole:
- Improved social connection and reduced isolation for older adults
- Enhanced mental and physical health outcomes
- Increased opportunities for intergenerational learning and collaboration
- Stronger, more cohesive communities where all generations thrive
Here, we share three innovative community initiatives centering seniors from around the world.
Many generations, one school
At The Intergenerational School in Cleveland, Ohio, older adults are placed at the heart of the K-8 learning process. Seniors serve as mentors, tutors, and volunteers in the classroom, directly engaging with students to support their academic and social-emotional development, particularly in areas such as literacy.
By creating a space where elders can share their knowledge and life experiences, the school empowers seniors to remain engaged and valued members of society while helping combat social isolation. In turn, the connections formed between generations provide students with valuable guidance and role models. Overall, this intergenerational approach to education helps strengthen community bonds and highlights the value of diverse experiences across age groups.
A home where all are welcome ... and valued
In the Netherlands, multigenerational living models have become widely embraced. This approach prioritizes the integration of older adults with younger generations in shared housing environments. The Dutch government facilitates multigenerational living through policies that provide funding for housing, tax incentives for developers, and investments in creating spaces that are both senior friendly and conducive to intergenerational interaction.
By living among students, young professionals, and families, older adults reduce their isolation, continue their sense of purpose, and find opportunities to share life lessons. In turn, younger generations gain access to mentorship, guidance, and practical support while providing care and assistance to their older neighbors.
This system of mutual support challenges age-related stereotypes and promotes a culture of respect and empathy. By creating a more equitable and socially cohesive society where everyone, regardless of age, is valued and supported, multigenerational housing also addresses broader societal challenges such as housing shortages and sustainability. Learn more about Olmsted Village, 2Life’s multigenerational housing initiative.
Taking the time to get healthcare right
Work being done in Guangzhou, China, further highlights the two-way benefits of investing in seniors. Older individuals can encounter unique challenges when it comes to adhering to medication regimens for a variety of reasons, including cognitive changes, sensory impairments (such as reduced vision or hearing), and complex medication schedules. Additionally, healthcare environments can sometimes present communication barriers, where medical terminology or fast-paced consultations may lead to confusion or misunderstanding.
In Guangzhou, outpatient pharmacists play a crucial role in optimizing medication management for older adults. They take the time to provide clear, personalized guidance tailored to the specific needs of older adults, ensuring that instructions are easy to understand and follow. Bridging the communication gap between seniors and healthcare providers improves not only medication adherence but also overall health outcomes, fostering their independence while benefiting society as a whole.
In it together: the global movement to support seniors
Each of these communities, and so many more across the globe, understands that no one person — of any age — can or should stand entirely on their own. Throughout our lives, we all need support and connection. And each of us has support and connection to give. Most importantly, we are all better for both giving to and receiving from the world around us.
From creating opportunities for people of all ages to learn, to tackling the high price of housing and the hardship of loneliness, to improving health outcomes and strengthening interpersonal connectivity, and more — the rewards individuals and communities can reap from embracing aging are varied and transformative.
