NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Connecting Seniors and Youth
The Furey government will address the gap between young people and older adults, which can be attributed to various factors such as family mobility, single-family homes, and an increase in senior citizens living in assisted living and long-term care homes.
“Newfoundland and Labrador has an ever-growing population of seniors. Connecting generations benefits children and older adults alike,” said Premier Andrew Furey.
“It can often help seniors feel inspired to be more active, energizes their mental health, and offers mutual learning opportunities,” said Furey. “We can see that vitality in a grandparent playing with their young grandchild in a park, for example.”
The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the negative effects of loneliness and isolation on a person’s mental and physical well-being.
To help address this issue, the Furey government will develop intergenerational programs to increase interaction between young and older Newfoundlanders and Labradorians for their mutual benefit.
Funded through the Seniors Social Inclusion Initiative and by partnering with care providers, community groups and educational institutions, the Furey government will consult with stakeholders to develop a resource to help organizations establish much-needed connections between the province’s seniors and youth.
– 30-