Recent demographic shift and evolving family structures have transformed intergenerational dynamics where elders feel devalued and youth struggle with differing expectations requiring effective Intergenerational Communications to address these issues.
Key Reasons that Disrupt Intergenerational Communications
- Generational Gap Perception Index: Reveals that the disconnection is shaped more by education, dependence, and emotional distance than by age alone.
- Communication Barriers: Both elders (76%) and youth (74%) identify busy youth schedules as the top barrier to interaction.
- Comfort Levels: It varies by topic and relationship, i.e., discussions on "life advice" are moderately comfortable for both groups, while "career or education plans" are least comfortable.
Recommendations on fostering effective Intergenerational Communications
- Aging Sensitization: To be included as curricula in schools/colleges fostering empathy among youths regarding emotional realities of aging.
- Youth-Led Training Initiatives: Establishing "Digital Buddy" programs to pair tech-savvy youth with elders for patient digital learning.
- Community-based elder support centres: Offering holistic services, including emotional counselling, etc.
- Intergenerational Programs: Like "Wisdom Exchange" programs where elders share traditional skills while youth offer modern knowledge.
