Journal of Mental Health and Aging

All submissions of the EM system will be redirected to Online Manuscript Submission System. Authors are requested to submit articles directly to Online Manuscript Submission System of respective journal.
Reach Us +1 (629)348-3199

Commentary - Journal of Mental Health and Aging (2025) Volume 9, Issue 3

Bridging the Gap: The Power and Value of Intergenerational Relationships

Mieko Inder*

School of Nursing and Midwifery, The University of Newcastle, Australia

*Corresponding Author:
Mieko Inder
School of Nursing and Midwifery, The University of Newcastle, Australia
E-mail: mieko.inder@newcastle.edu.au

Received: : 03-May-2025, Manuscript No. AAJMHA-25- 165376; Editor assigned: 05-May-2025, PreQC No. AAJMHA-25-165376 (PQ); Reviewed: 11-May-2025, QC No. AAJMHA-25- 165376; Revised: : 25-May-2025, Manuscript No. AAJMHA-25- 165376 (R); Published: 31-May-2025, DOI:10.35841/10.35841/aajmha-9.3.264

Citation: Citation: Inder. M. Bridging the Gap: The Power and Value of Intergenerational Relationships. J Ment Health Aging. 2025; 9 (3):264

Visit for more related articles at Journal of Mental Health and Aging

Abstract

  

Introduction

In a world where people are often divided by age, generation, and lifestyle, intergenerational relationships offer a unique and powerful bridge between the young and the old. These relationships—whether between grandparents and grandchildren, older mentors and young mentees, or through community programs that bring generations together— have the potential to enrich lives on both sides. More than just familial ties, intergenerational connections foster understanding, reduce age-related stereotypes, and strengthen the social fabric of communities. [

Intergenerational relationships are beneficial for individuals and society as a whole. They provide opportunities for shared learning, emotional support, and cultural transmission. In an age of rapid technological and social change, these relationships offer a sense of continuity and identity, especially for younger people learning from the life experiences of their elders. Older adults involved in meaningful interactions with younger generations often report reduced feelings of loneliness, depression, and social isolation. These connections give them a sense of purpose and belonging. Engaging with younger individuals can keep older adults mentally and physically active. Teaching, storytelling, and mentoring stimulate memory and communication skills, which are essential in healthy aging. Intergenerational bonds provide older adults with opportunities to share their values, traditions, and life lessons, contributing to a sense of fulfilment and generativity. [4-6].

Young people can gain valuable insights, skills, and guidance from older adults. Exposure to different life perspectives promotes empathy, patience, and critical thinking. Grandparents and older mentors often serve as stable figures in a young person’s life, offering encouragement, support, and wisdom during challenging times. Interacting with older generations helps young people connect with their cultural roots and understand the historical and social changes that shape the world. Strong intergenerational connections can lead to more cohesive and compassionate communities. Programs that pair youth with seniors in schools, care homes, or community centres have shown success in breaking down age-related prejudices, reducing generational divides, and creating mutually beneficial partnerships. Such programs also encourage civic engagement and reduce the burden on social support systems by promoting mutual care and cooperation. [7-9].

Despite the many benefits, modern life often separates generations—geographically, socially, and digitally. Busy schedules, ageism, and a lack of shared spaces or structured programs can make intergenerational relationships more difficult to establish and maintain. Bridging these gaps requires intentional efforts, such as community initiatives, educational programs, and family practices that value multigenerational interaction. [10].

conclusion

Intergenerational relationships are more than nostalgic family memories—they are vital connections that enhance wellbeing, foster mutual respect, and build stronger, more resilient communities. By encouraging these relationships at home, in schools, and across society, we not only enrich individual lives but also promote unity across generations. In an increasingly fragmented world, the bridge between the young and the old may be one of our most valuable and enduring connections.

References

  1. Branco AU, Valsiner J. Changing methodologies: A co-constructivist study of goal orientations in social interactions. Psychology and developing societies. 1997;9(1):35-64.

    2. Google Scholar

  2. Dazzani MV, Teixeira AM, Freire KE, et al. Universidade e Justiça Epistêmica: uma proposta para a Psicologia Escolar e Educacional. Psicologia Escolar na Educação Superior. 1ed. Campinas: Grupo Átomo e Alínea. 2020;1:22-32.

    3. Google Scholar

  3. Kelp C, Greco J, editors. Virtue-theoretic epistemology: New methods and approaches. Cambridge University Press; 2020 Jul 23.

    4. Google Scholar

  4. Joseph Mbembe A. Decolonizing the university: New directions. Arts and Humanities in Higher Education. 2016;15(1):29-45.

    5. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  5. Schmidt H. Indigenizing and decolonizing the teaching of psychology: Reflections on the role of the non?Indigenous ally. American journal of community psychology. 2019;64(1-2):59-71.

    6. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  6. Becker DV, Mortensen CR, Ackerman JM, et al. Signal detection on the battlefield: Priming self-protection vs. revenge-mindedness differentially modulates the detection of enemies and allies. PloS one. 2011;6(9):e23929.

    7. Indexed at, Google Scholar ,Cross Ref

  7. Hall PL. Mitigating the Impact of Reemergence From a Pandemic on Healthcare. Mil Med. 2021;186(9-10):259-62.

    8. Indexed at, Google Scholar ,Cross Ref

  8. Maingon C, Tatu L. Creative minds in the aftermath of the Great War: four neurologically wounded artists. InNeurological Disorders in Famous Artists-Part 4 2018 (Vol. 43, pp. 37-46). Karger Publishers.

    9. Indexed at, Google Scholar ,Cross Ref

  9. Vuillemin Q, Schwartzbrod PE, Pasquier P, et al. Influence of personality traits on the effective performance of lifesaving interventions: example of the tourniquet application in forward combat casualty care. Mil Med. 2018;183(1-2):e95-103.

    10. Indexed at, Google Scholar ,Cross Ref

  10. Karageorgos E. ‘The Unseen Enemy Persists’: Delusion, Trauma and the South African War in Australian Asylum Case Notes. Soc. Hist. Med. 2023:hkac049.

    11. Indexed at, Google Scholar ,Cross Ref

Get the App