The Benefits of Intergenerational Activities in Senior Living
March 10, 2026
At The Hickman, some of the most meaningful moments in our community happen when generations come together. Through our intergenerational volunteer programs, residents have the opportunity to connect with students from local schools and universities, creating friendships that are both unexpected and deeply rewarding.
Previously, we highlighted our long-standing relationship with our Quaker Hill neighbor, West Chester Friends School. Through the moments they share, students and residents plant seeds of compassion while building a sense of mutual respect and understanding between generations. These connections remind us how powerful it can be when young people and older adults spend time learning from one another. Read more about this partnership in our blog on intergenerational activities with West Chester Friends School.
High School Volunteers Bring Energy to Our Memory Care Community
We’re fortunate to welcome two groups of dedicated high school volunteers who regularly spend time with residents in our community.
One group, from Bayard Rustin High School, visits each Saturday to spend time with residents in our Darlington memory care neighborhood. These students initiated the visits simply because they wanted to build relationships with seniors in their community, and they have remained steadfast in their commitment ever since.
Through sharing stories, memories, and life experiences, both young and old have discovered common ground and formed meaningful friendships.
As Community Life Manager of the Darlington Neighborhood, Stacey Farrell, shares:
“Nurturing seniors in this community makes the students feel fulfilled, and they value the time they spend with our seniors in Darlington just as much as the residents do.”
The GlamourGals Program Brings Care and Connection
Another group of high school volunteers from Henderson High School participates in the GlamourGals program.
During their visits, students offer manicures to residents in the Darlington Neighborhood—helping them look and feel their best while providing the kind of one-on-one attention that helps residents feel truly seen and valued.
“These visits are a mutually beneficial collaboration,” explains Stacey, “and the girls feel good about working with our seniors.”
Why Intergenerational Activities Matter in Senior Living
Humans are wired for connection, but intergenerational activities offer far more than social interaction alone. These shared experiences provide a wide range of benefits for everyone involved.
Older adults often experience reduced feelings of isolation and a stronger sense of purpose when engaging with younger generations. For students, spending time with seniors helps cultivate empathy, patience, and communication skills that will shape how they engage with older adults throughout their lives.
These programs help foster respect, understanding, and compassion between generations—qualities that strengthen the entire community.
Intergenerational Connections at The Hickman
Supporting meaningful intergenerational relationships is one of the many ways The Hickman carries out its mission of providing individualized care and enriching experiences for seniors.
Located in the heart of West Chester, Pennsylvania, The Hickman offers a welcoming senior living community where residents can enjoy connection, purpose, and the richness of all life’s possibilities.