Within 30 years, the older adult population will double--reaching 70 million in the United States and over one billion globally. This major demographic shift requires that we re-define the roles and responsibilities of each generation and restructure the way we provide health and social services. Rather than seeing young people and older adults as problems to be solved, we need to view them as resources to be tapped.
Many older people are seeking opportunities to share their skills, knowledge, and experiences with younger generations. They are an invaluable source of support for young people who need caring adults to guide and nurture them as they navigate the difficult course to adulthood. At the same time young people need opportunities to give of themselves. By working with older adults on community projects or by reaching out to those who may require assistance, young people develop important skills and meet real needs. Intergenerational programs and policies are valuable approaches for addressing critical social problems, ensuring the transmission of culture across generations and building stronger communities.