According to the BC government web site on health and safety/active aging, intergenerational connections can help both older and younger people feel more cared for and valued. At Tapestry, we seek opportunities for a variety of community connections, because we know these unique interactions can enrich many of the 7 Dimensions of Wellness, including intellectual, emotional, social and occupational.

One example is the relationship between Tapestry at Victoria Harbour and the James Bay Community School. Kindergarten students from the school have come to Tapestry to sing songs and enjoy stories read by residents. Students and residents have also played indoor lawn bowling together.

Christiane and George, Tapestry at Victoria Harbour residents who as a couple have a rich history of collecting, curating and donating Coast Salish art, have also worked with local artist Dylan Thomas to offer presentations and workshops on Coast Salish art at the James Bay school. The presentation was so well received, Dylan has now been scheduled to give the same presentation to Tapestry residents.

At Tapestry at Arbutus Walk in Vancouver’s Kitsilano neighbourhood, students from St. John’s School regularly participate in Tapestry’s Halloween parade and residents visit the school for Remembrance Day.

The school’s Grade 7 class has also put in place an “Intergenerational Hour” as the grade’s service project, which they plan to continue as a monthly activity for the 2024/2025 school year. After the first session, the students debriefed when they got back to school, and their teacher says they really enjoyed their interactions with Tapestry residents. She added that one of the highlights was watching a resident teach a small group of students how to play dominoes, and then watching them all enjoy the new game together.

One of the most popular ways for the generations to connect is through music. At our Tapestry at Wesbrook Village location near the University of British Columbia, a group of choir and strings students from University-Hill Secondary School recently performed a concert for residents. Kindergarten students from the nearby Norma Rose Elementary also sang for residents this spring. And one of our talented residents volunteered to teach an art class at the school.

Some of the many benefits of intergenerational interactions, according to the Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging, are:

• A greater sense of connection as different generations come together, learn from one another and form new friendships. These relationships can help combat negative stereotypes and ageism.
• An increased feeling of purpose as each individual is able to serve as a teacher, a mentor, or even as a stand-in grandparent or grandchild. These new social roles can enhance confidence, self-worth and overall well-being.
• More learning opportunities as stories and traditions are shared, making note of similarities and differences.
• Improved mood due to making meaningful, personal connections.

These intergenerational programs are just a few examples of the wide range of opportunities and activities that can help you live a more active and engaged life at Tapestry.

If you are looking for a vibrant retirement living community where you can make new friends, have new experiences and continue to enjoy life to the fullest, please contact us and we would be pleased to host you for a complimentary lunch and a tour.