—
There seems to be a gap between older and younger generations. This gap is sometimes filled with misconceptions that make it hard to connect with members of each group, which is a shame since they both have a lot to teach other.
The issue does not only affect strangers, it also affects parents, offspring, grandkids, and grandparents. Finding ways to make life better for the elderly is everyone’s responsibility, and it starts at home. Keep in mind that Australia’s aging population is larger than ever, making this a priority.
Benefiting From Each Other
Most people know how detrimental loneliness can be to an aging loved one. It can lead to depression and other issues. Being able to talk to someone helps keep the mind sharp since having a conversation and reminiscing about the past helps fire up several electrical responses within the brain. The phenomena that is created in the brain through conversation is quite helpful for those dealing with memory issues.
Some believe that creating a relationship between a young person and an older person will only help the older person, which is not true. Yes, there are benefits that an older person is going to enjoy, but it can also help a young person by reducing the risk of health issues as this young person grows older.
Many young people think that an older person’s life is nothing to look forward to. Some believe that an older person simply does not have fun anymore and is just “waiting to die.” These thoughts are simply misconceptions that can be broken by talking to an aging loved one. Members of older generations have fun just like anyone else.
The reason it is important to break this misconception is that believing you have nothing to look forward to as you age could cause depression and other health issues. Younger people should appreciate all stages of life because this helps improve overall mood, and that is good medicine.
Revolutionizing Care is Good for All
It would be naive to say the elderly do not have issues that need to be addressed. Older generations make up a lot more of Australia’s working population, so many of them are helping to support the economy of the country. Older people deserve the care they receive.
Furthermore, addressing the issues afflicting some elderly could help turn the tide within the care industry. It should be noted that more and more Australians are providing care for the elderly without proper training. This may be a nice gesture, but it does not guarantee proper care. Again, the change starts at home, so consider professionally tailored aged care packages to ensure your loved one is getting the home care he or she needs.
As mentioned earlier, it is important to combine professional care with a personal touch. Making time to build a relationship with an aging loved one is important, not only for you but for younger generations within your family. The generational gaps between the young and the old is an illusion and could be destroyed by simply re-connecting.
Attempting to mend connections or form new ones is not always easy, so it is important to work at it. Setting up small family gatherings could be a start, and all you have to do is try to find common ground. Getting your family to enjoy time together should be easier once members of each generation establish a connection. It is important that these values are shared because it is an issue that many families in Australia are dealing with.
Some links in this post may be paid.
Photo: Getty Images