At Circle of Care, our intergenerational programs—including Triple G, Link Generations, and others—are about more than just connecting youth and seniors; they are about creating lasting change in how we view aging and interaction across generations. Through strong partnerships with community organizations, we’ve brought together youth and seniors to foster relationships that combat isolation and help build lasting connections.
Social isolation poses significant risks to both mental and physical health, particularly for seniors. Loneliness and a lack of social interaction can lead to depression, anxiety, cognitive decline, and even chronic illnesses such as heart disease and diabetes. Research highlights that the impact of isolation can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, emphasizing the urgent need for solutions. At the same time, younger generations—though seemingly over connected in the digital world —often feel disconnected in real, meaningful ways.
Intergenerational programs have proven effective in helping address these growing issues by offering interactive experiences that help both seniors and youth feel more engaged and supported in their communities.
Intergenerational Programs: Building Bridges
Over the past year, Circle of Care has proudly supported intergenerational programs that bridge generational gaps, fostering mutual understanding and providing new opportunities for growth and connection.
Link Generations Program
Launched in partnership with UpSocial Canada, Link Generations pairs 10 seniors with 10 young adults to share life experiences and develop meaningful relationships. Since its inception, the program has hosted multiple sessions, fostering a supportive environment for participants to connect and grow together.
“What I find really amazing is discussing their lives and their histories with them. The personal growth I’ve gained, emotionally, mentally, and socially; I feel like my life has improved in so many ways, simply because of the happiness and joy I feel from doing that.” – Dave, a Link Generations senior participant
Triple G Program
The Triple G Program, a collaboration with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Toronto, exemplifies the transformative power of intergenerational relationships. By connecting three generations, this initiative has provided seniors with invaluable social interactions and youth with unique insights into different life stages.
Legacy and ADP Intergenerational Programs
The Legacy Program pairs youth with seniors to document life stories through various media, creating a shared sense of accomplishment.
Transformative Outcomes
Time and time again, these programs have shown mutual benefits of intergenerational connections, resulting in enhanced emotional well-being, reduced feelings of isolation, and a renewed sense of purpose= among seniors, and increased empathy and understanding among the participating youth.
“Oftentimes, older adults provide their insights and share their wisdom. The youth also have some wisdom to share. I always look forward to those ‘aha’ moments, where anyone from any age would say something that just makes you think ‘wow, that’s a pearl of wisdom,’” says Lori N. Marks, PhD, Founder of Link Generations.
By prioritizing program such as these, organizations like Circle of Care and our valued partners are not only supporting people in building relationships that improve their wellbeing, but we are helping shift the societal narrative on aging, challenging misconceptions, and promoting a more integrated and compassionate community. This year, we had the chance to share our thoughts on the broader impact of these important programs at conferences like the Professional Association of Volunteer Leaders (PAVRO), where we discussed they foster stronger, more resilient communities and create a more inclusive future for all ages.
