Redefining Ageing Through Intergenerational Connectivity
Connecting older and younger generations through shared activities help challenge ageist stereotypes while highlighting the valuable contributions of older adults to society. Mutual learning and social interactions promote inclusiveness and empathy that build trust and respect when people of all ages can learn together and from each other.
Working towards this, MWS’ Research, Innovation & Training Academy (RITA) has partnered with the NUS College of Alice & Peter Tan (CAPT) on several initiatives, starting with Project Chronicles.
Co-created by NUS CAPT and RITA, the project involved students from the CAPT Social Innovation Wing engaging residents at MWS Bethany Nursing Home – Choa Chu Kang through life story journalling. The students led four sessions, covering topics like family life, occupations, favourite foods, and hobbies, which were expressed through craft activities and compiled into a personalised journal memento for each resident.
Following the project, the students’ self-reflections revealed a shift in their perceptions of seniors in nursing homes. One student shared, “A resident spoke about her continued Catholic faith and how she attended mass online using her iPad. I had assumed that seniors in nursing homes were socially isolated; I hadn’t considered their potential for well-being and flourishing.”
The partnership continued with the Ageless Skills Swap initiative at MWS Charis ACE Active Ageing Centre – Geylang East in July 2024. NUS CAPT students taught the seniors how to create personalised WhatsApp stickers, encouraging IT savviness and creative expression. In return, the seniors introduced nostalgic childhood games like Marbles Toss and Five Stones, along with activities such as Nagomi art and Rummikub.
“I was amused when the seniors started to make funny poses and faces for the stickers,” said 21-year-old Samantha Tan, one of the students behind the initiative. “It was eye-opening for me to have this level of deep conversation with seniors apart from my own grandparents.”
Intergenerational programmes have proven effective in fostering social and emotional connections between the young and old, enabling the exchange of wisdom and improving overall well-being. Tangible benefits include enhanced longevity for seniors and a sense of support and grounding for the younger generation.
Indeed, with Singapore expected to attain super-aged status within the decade, the RITA team aims to promote and integrate these programmes across MWS services, so that “the old shall dream dreams, and the young shall see visions”.
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