Link Generations Launches Connections
Our Connections Newsletter is designed to give you quarterly updates about Link Generations activities. We had a busy first year of connecting youth with older adults. Among the many milestones, Link Generations Summer Storytelling Series at Ingleside at King Farm was featured in the Washington Post. The partnership with Charles E. Smith Life Communities is going strong with monthly programs featuring music, computer training, and other fun activities to create inter-generational experiences that help people of all ages feel a sense of purpose and connection to others. Click here for more details.
Club Connections
Link Generations Starts Network of High School Clubs: Link Generations has started a network of clubs at area schools. We provide club materials and training, and facilitate connections with nearby assisted living communities. Students gain leadership skills while planning fun activities based on their own interests. Students can earn SSL hours. For more information or to get involved, contact Lori Marks at .
Dance Party at Ring House
Over 40 residents and teens taught each other dance moves during last Sunday’s Link Generations dance party at Ring House. The next event at Ring House is Sunday, December 10, 1:30 pm. Learn more.
Make Link Generations Your Gift to the Teens and Older Adults in Your Life on #GivingTuesday
Donate to Link Generations as part of #GivingTuesday, the global giving movement that has been built by individuals, families, organizations, businesses and communities in all 50 states and countries around the world. Your contribution to Link Generations helps to educate young people about aging and connect youth and older adults in interactive activities that provide psychological, emotional, and social benefits to both populations. Link Generations is a 503(c) (3) organization. Contributions are tax-deductible. Visit www.linkgenerations.org to donate now.
Improving Communication with Older Adults
As the holiday season approaches, you may be with people of multiple ages. The normal aging process often means that people’s sensory systems, like vision and hearing, begin to decline. Being aware of this when you are talking to older adults can enhance your conversation and prevent the frustration of miscommunication. The below pointers can apply to all situations and age groups, but are especially important to celebrate and give thanks for each other during the holidays.
- Show some respect. This goes for everyone: respect people of all ages.
- Remember what you have in common. You may think your experiences around technology, for example, are different, but in communicating with family and friends, recognize the commonalities, the wonder of learning something new, and the excitement around holiday traditions.
- Recognize each other’s strengths. Older adults have a wealth of history and wisdom to share. Young people have energy and new ideas about innovation.
- Allow extra time for older adults. Someone who has trouble hearing may feel hesitant about engaging in conversation. Spend extra time to help make that person feel more comfortable. You may be surprised at the stories you hear!
- Avoid distractions. Try to give a few minutes of your undivided attention to each individual. They will feel that you have spent quality time with them. Avoid auditory and visual distractions to enhance that quality time.
- Sit face to face. Some older adults have vision and hearing loss, and reading your lips may be important for them to understand you. This simple act conveys that the person is important to you.
- Maintain eye contact. This tells the other person you are interested in them and they can trust you.
- Listen. Good communication depends on good listening.
- Speak slowly, clearly, and loudly. The normal aging process involves a slower rate of taking in information. Speaking slowly and clearly takes this into account. Speak loudly to be heard without shouting.
- Exercise patience and compassion. After all, compassion is what this holiday is all about!
