What is Intergenerational?

"Intergenerational" is where people of all ages are equal partners in building a community where all generations thrive and each persons needs, talents and strengths are valued, respected and engaged! - Generations United Yavapai County

In the past it has been thought that every 25 years a new generation is born. This has been changing as we live longer and as those things in our environment that influence our lives continue to change at breakneck speed. Now a generation could span 10 or 30 years depending on what has impacted that age group.

Things that influence a generation:

• Technology
• Social attitude and structure
• Political policy and war
• Economic trends

The idea of generations together is not new but many factors have caused un-natural age segregation which is requiring us to restore the multi-age village concept in a way that can meet today’s unique challenges.

The Intergenerational movement has gained momentum since the 1960’s when such ideas began formally taking seed. Substantial interest and significant research has now demonstrated the economic, social and health benefits of Intergenerational approaches. Advertisers and marketing plans now try to appeal to diverse age groups all at once and the term “multigenerational” has become a political buzz word.

Intergenerational Strategies

With all the renewed interest, it is important to be consistent with how we define and express the concept. For instance, “multigenerational” only describes a place or project where all ages are welcome while “intergenerational” describes intentional interaction between and among the ages. This distinction is valuable in understanding some key elements to Intergenerational strategies.

The important word here is “intentional” which implies having the awareness and knowledge of how to bring generations together in enriching ways.

Intergenerational strategies facilitate the strengths of each generation to meet the needs of the other and the community at large through:

1. quality relationship building
2. structured time to reflect on the interactions

Intergenerational Programming

Intergenerational Programming utilizes inclusive language that highlights the assets of each life stage and offers guidance in addressing ageist stereotypes. It practices building relationships through projects that:

1. Identify a community need
2. Identify community strengths
3. Intentionally use Intergenerational Strategies to address the need with the strengths