Intergenerational Day was created on June 1 in an effort to reduce and eliminate the growing gap between elderly and young. The purpose of the day is to unite various generations by highlighting their commonalities. It is also a means for people of all ages to combat isolation, depression, anxiety, and stress. Obviously, medical care and treatment will likely remedy such conditions.
However, studies have shown that having someone to speak to is also beneficial. Typically, elderly individuals are no longer occupied with activities (such as family and employment) that previously occupied a significant portion of their time. Young individuals, on the other hand, would have so much going on in their lives that they would require assistance. Intergenerational Day comes into action at this point.
The background of Intergenerational Day
2009 saw the conception of Intergenerational Day by a teacher from British Columbia, Canada. The instructor collaborated with students on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day-related endeavours. Students were taught about the respect, care, and love that society’s elders deserve, and within a year, the initiatives gained such momentum that the first Intergenerational Day was observed in 2010.
The i2i Intergenerational Society and five other school organisations from Quebec, Manitoba, Ontario, Newfoundland, and British Columbia adopted the day’s theme. The i2i is a non-profit organisation that assists individuals and organisations in promoting initiatives that connect the elderly and the youth. Since its inception in 2010, the holiday has been observed in 12 territories and over 100 localities. In fact, the Toronto District School Board has enacted legislation mandating the observance of this day.
Decades of research indicate that a dearth of care and attention for our ageing population will result in depression and the development of physical and mental illnesses. The younger generation will lose a great deal of culture, history, life experiences, and empathetic skills if society’s elders are neglected. Therefore, we must provide for the generations with the greatest need. By facilitating the connection between the ancient and the new, we secure our past, present, and future. You can contribute on this day by visiting retirement communities and spending time with their residents. Fundamentally, humans do not need elaborate displays of devotion. Intergenerational Day drives home the message that all they require is a social connection with someone who is willing to listen and be with them.
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5 INTERGENERATIONAL ISSUES FACTS THAT WILL BLOW YOUR MIND
In 2007, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the World Programme of Action for Youth, which promoted intergenerational solidarity.
By 2030 to 2050, older age groups (50 to 70 years) will outnumber younger age groups (10 to 30 years) in many regions of the world.
Intergenerational solidarity enables the exchange of ideas based on experiences and knowledge, both of which are essential to the development of a society.
Positive intergenerational communication can improve the mental and physical health of approximately 90% of seniors.
Through interaction between generations, a society can guarantee a healthier and more prosperous future for future generations.
INTERGENERATIONAL DAY DATES
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2023 | June 1 | Thursday |
2024 | June 1 | Saturday |
2025 | June 1 | Sunday |
2026 | June 1 | Monday |
2027 | June 1 | Tuesday |