Generation learning from generation

In an age where the digital divide seemingly widens the gap between each generation, at Widenham Retirement Village, we cherish the timeless tradition of grandparents and grandchildren spending time together—imparting life skills on nature, crafting, and exploring outdoors. This concept of one generation learning from another not only bridges the past and present but also paves the way for a future rich in shared knowledge. What we particularly treasure is how intergenerational learning benefits everyone involved: the wise cracks of youth and the wisdom of age find their perfect harmony in our community. Join us in discovering how these timeless interactions are enriching lives at Widenham Retirement Village.

Building intergenerational bridges

We’re deeply committed to fostering opportunities for enriching intergenerational interactions. Our event calendar is brimming with activities designed to unite generations, from gardening projects and cooking classes to tech tutoring sessions and storytelling. Our recent grandchildren’s week at Widenham Retirement Village showcased it all. Each event was a step towards bridging the generational divide and celebrating it, creating a community that’s inclusive and celebratory of all ages.

Witnessing the magic that unfolds when the young and the elderly come together is truly heartwarming. These moments transcend skill sharing or knowledge transfer; they’re about forging connections between the ages, and fostering a sense of belonging and community that’s invaluable for all involved.

A living library of experiences

Our residents are full of stories from the past, wisdom from a lifetime of experience, and skills from a simpler time. From knitting and woodwork to storytelling sessions that bring history to life, the learning opportunities are endless. Children visiting their grandparents at Widenham Retirement Village pick up a myriad of new skills to take with them when they leave.

Joyful learning across ages

At Widenham, there’s no such thing as being bored at grandma’s house when there’s a whole world of places and people to meet right on your doorstep. All our little explorers and young adventurers at grandchildren’s week will agree, each day is certainly a new chapter in our charming estate.

From proper bicycle maintenance to how to fish, and how to confidently put on a good old fashioned talent show, Widenham was alive with peals of joyous laughter throughout grandchildren’s week. Seeing the world through the kids’ eyes and sharing how to explore the coast or spot birds while hiking, while part of the everyday for our residents, became a wondrous and rewarding activity shared between young and old. Imparting skills in baking and craft highlighted the immense value of carrying those skills forward for future generations.

More than just crafts and skills, the importance of community care is shared. Kids enjoyed delivering baked goods to housebound residents and sharing stories about their day.

In ongoing studies done by the American program Generations United, it was found that supporting and creating programmes for the young and old to unite and learn from each other had benefits for all, improving both the academics and empathy of kids, and the mental and emotional well-being of the older generation.

From pastimes to lifelong bonds

Skills and hobbies

Many grandparents have skills or hobbies that are not as common today, such as crafting, cooking traditional recipes, gardening, or even manual repairs. By teaching these to their grandchildren, they not only pass on practical skills but also create opportunities for bonding and the development of new interests.

Values and life lessons

Grandparents often impart important life lessons and values to their grandchildren, including resilience, patience, hard work, and kindness. These lessons are sometimes conveyed through stories of personal challenges and achievements, providing moral guidance and also inspiration.

Emotional support and wisdom

Grandparents can offer a unique perspective that is different from parents’, often providing emotional support, wisdom, and advice in a less judgmental way. Their years of experience allow them to offer guidance on a wide range of issues, from interpersonal relationships to career choices.

Encouraging curiosity and learning

The curiosity of grandchildren can, in turn, stimulate grandparents to learn new things themselves, such as new technologies, to communicate and connect with younger generations. This reciprocal learning can be incredibly rewarding for both and helps bridge the generational divide.

Technology and new perspectives

Conversely, grandchildren can teach their grandparents about new technologies, trends, and societal changes. This helps keep grandparents connected to the modern world and provides them with new tools and perspectives to navigate it.

This symbiotic relationship enriches both generations. Grandchildren gain knowledge, skills, and values that are not easily acquired through formal education, while grandparents have the opportunity to impart their legacy, stay mentally active, and connected with the younger generation, providing a sense of purpose and fulfilment.

The bonds formed between younger and older generations at Widenham Retirement Village remind us of the universal truths that connect us. By embracing the lessons we can learn from each other, we cultivate a community that is age-inclusive and celebrates every stage of life. We invite you to join us in this celebration—whether by visiting or participating in our next event, become a part of our vibrant intergenerational tapestry.

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