Bridging Generations: The Power of Intergenerational Connections with Sharon MacKenzie

This week on the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Sharon MacKenzie, educator, founder and Executive Director of i2i Intergenerational Society, mother and grandmother about building intergenerational relationships.

MacKenzie, an educator with over 30 years of experience, shares her insights on the vital importance of intergenerational connections between youth and seniors.

Founder of i2i Intergenerational Society, she highlights how bringing these two groups together can significantly improve mental, social, and emotional health for both parties.

Through engaging stories and personal experiences, Sharon illustrates the transformative power of these relationships, showcasing how young people can break down stereotypes and foster mutual respect with older adults.

Reflecting on her journey, she emphasizes the necessity of intentionality in creating opportunities for interaction, urging communities to prioritize these connections. With the growing number of seniors in Canada, Sharon advocates for a collective effort to bridge generational gaps and enrich lives on both sides.

Takeaways:

• i2i Intergenerational Society connects youth and seniors, fostering meaningful relationships.
• Sharon MacKenzie emphasizes the importance of intentionally bringing younger and older generations together.
• Intergenerational programs improve mental health and social interaction for both seniors and youth.
• Involving students in activities with seniors can break stereotypes and enhance community bonds.
• Parents are encouraged to model positive interactions with older adults for their children.
• Engaging children with seniors early on can reduce ageism and promote understanding across generations.

Links referenced in this episode:

• intergenerational.ca

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Links referenced in this episode:

• whereparentstalk.com