Cross-generational Communication - Bridging the Gap

World Day for Grandparents

Cross-generational Communication
Bridging the Gap

Marking the celebration of the World Day for Grandfathers, Grandmothers and all the Elderly, we come to the realization that today seven generations coexist for the first time in the history of Mankind: youth, middle-age, elderly, and all those between the ages of 0 and 97 years old and higher.[i] 

It is truly a miracle and a notable accomplishment for the field of medical science to offer Mankind such extended longevity. It seems though that this longer life span is also coupled with a major challenge: the “communication gap between generations”. The older age groups have more difficulties in sharing information, ideas and feelings with younger age groups than they do with their own. Throughout time, there have indeed been various methods, values and models of communication. However, this brings to question whether there is a true sense of understanding between the different generations that can bridge the existing gap of communication and that can reunite people regardless of their age.

Within the new circumstances of today, characterized by new ways of communication, collaboration, coexistence and living together amongst seven generations, the needs of the Elderly are disregarded.  Within the clamor of communication, where different languages and behaviors come together, it is difficult for the voices of grandparents to be heard, and with that, the needs of the Elderly.

Α research survey carried out by the Institute of Human Rights in Australia[ii] showed that stereotypes regarding aging are directly related to a person’s psychological make-up, creating feelings of shame, anger and grief in reference to  the Elderly. In turn, these feelings directly influence one’s self-esteem and the way the Australians (in this particular study) view aging in general.  The survey revealed that younger people have negative behavior toward the Elderly, which also makes communicating between the two age groups more difficult. Those in the age group of 18-25 characterized getting old as something terrible, while those in the older age bracket of 55-65 presented aging as “something that must be feared because you lose total control”. Those that belong to the 65 yr. age category forewarned that “aging is something you have to avoid”. What was emphatically stated in the study was that problematic behavior due to discrimination based on age appears in health systems at the expense of the Elderly at a time when care is most needed.

We, in our society, have become successful in being sensitive to issues such as racial discrimination, gender inequality and religious differences. Yet, we have not realized  how discrimination toward the Elderly has become so widespread in many parts of the world. [iii]

Older studies of the London School of Economics[iv] have shown that when there are common activities between small children and the Elderly, anxiety is reduced, and self-esteem is increased. Particularly, the children that show an insufficient ability to express empathy develop prosocial behavior through their interaction with the Elderly. What was also observed was that young people’s behavior toward the aging takes on the characteristics of politeness and common understanding, while there is a notable decline in stereotypes regarding the aging, resulting in showing more respect to those that have progressed in years. 

As successful coaches and managers say, every challenge brings forth a new opportunity. The forementioned lack of cross-generational understanding has given incitive to authorities and organizations to act. Recently, the World Health Organization started a campaign for Cross-generational Communication.[v] The aim of this campaign is to change the attitude toward discrimination regarding aging and to provide guidelines that will lead to a new era free from stereotypes in relation to aging.

Can we hope for a better tomorrow? Has the “game” of communication between generations been lost? Will younger people continue to view the Elderly in a degrading way? Likewise, will the Elderly talk against the younger generation, saying young people lack values and principles? Can we change the negative climate that has evolved around cross-generational communications? Can we reverse the wave of aggression, indifference and violence between generations? If we improve cross-generational relations, will this not help our societies to foster and enjoy inclusiveness, respect and security in a fast-changing world? 

The recent study by Athena Ramos shows that young people who take part in common activities with the Elderly feel more satisfied with their life and are ready to engage in society. They are also not prone to delinquent and violent behavior. They are more aware of and sensitive to the needs of the Elderly and are willing to develop a close relation with them. Finally, they are less likely to form stereotypes regarding aging.[vi] 

Fan Zhou, Hong Zhang and Hong Yan Wang[vii] verify the benefits of cross-generational communication resulting from common activities between the young and old. In their study, they underline the positive consequences that come from the co-existence of young people with Elderly persons that include mental development, the ability to manage one’s self, an incentive to learn and develop one’s self-cognitive skills, the ability to obey and follow rules and guidelines, and the initiative to not be absent from school.

It seems that a spark has been ignited in today’s world regarding cross-generational communication. Civil authorities, leaders, communities and parishes must realize that they need to face this creative pioneering challenge! A starting point in this mobilization is to make those that belong to local communities and parishes aware of the needs regarding aging; to develop a sense of understanding and a sensitivity regarding the issues involved; to recognize the benefits of cross-generational communication. We must overcome all the barriers that are placed in front of us.  In today’s world, where fast developing technology is affecting the emotional intelligence of people, there is a need for a more friendly society that is founded on a spirit of trust and interpersonal exchange of feelings, a society that does not isolate or extradite its people. For instance, Artificial Intelligence is very impressive in the way it compiles facts and information with such speed, but it cannot take the place of interpersonal relationships and direct one-on-one communication.

“Many Years” to all our Grandparents and Elderly on this occasion of their World Day of Celebration. May the coming years bring on a better quality of understanding, interest and amiability amongst the young and old, regardless of their age.

Marilena Kavoura
Specialist in Health Care Management
Quality in Aged Care Consultant
July 28, 2024

[i] https://www.parents.com/parenting/better-parenting/style/generation-names-and-years-a-cheat-sheet-for-parents/

[ii]https://humanrights.gov.au/sites/default/files/document/publication/Fact%20or%20Fiction_2013_WebVersion_FINAL_0.pdf

[iii] https://www.age-platform.eu/age-position-on-structural-ageism/

[iv] https://eprints.lse.ac.uk/62083/1/the-effects-of-intergenerational-programmes-on-children-and-young-people.pdf

[v] https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240070264

[vi] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36961752/ “Acceptability of Intergenerational Physical Activity

[vii] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38345651/ “Barriers and facilitators to older adult participation in intergenerational physical activity program: a systematic review”

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