Podcast Summary: How to Age Up Together
Podcast Information
- Title: How to Age Up
- Host/Author: The Atlantic
- Description: The science around aging is expanding but are our cultural narratives keeping up?
- Episode: How to Age Up Together
- Release Date: April 28, 2025
Introduction: Bridging Generational Gaps
In the episode titled How to Age Up Together, hosts Natalie Brennan, a Gen Z producer, and Yasmin Tayag, a millennial staff writer at The Atlantic, delve into the intricacies of intergenerational relationships in today's age-diverse society. The conversation is enriched by insights from Eunice Nichols, co-CEO of Cogenerate, an organization dedicated to fostering intergenerational partnerships.
Generational Traits and Overlaps
The discussion begins with the hosts humorously comparing millennial and Gen Z traits. Natalie shares, “I kind of thought it was a Gen Z quality, but maybe that's just the millennial core in me” (02:01). Yasmin echoes this sentiment, highlighting the overlap between generations and questioning the rigid boundaries often placed between them.
The Current State of Intergenerational Relationships
Eunice Nichols provides a foundational understanding of the current generational landscape. She states, “We're living in the most age-diverse time in human history for the next 10 years. This incredible diverse age population is a gift to us if we seize that opportunity” (04:09). She elaborates on the decline in birth rates and the increase in life expectancy, creating a unique age demographic that is both diverse and segregated.
Impact of Age-Segregated Society
Eunice discusses how societal structures have historically led to age segregation. “We went from having these age-integrated one-room schoolhouses... to policies that pulled generations apart” (09:16). She explains the emergence of retirement communities like Sun City and The Villages in Florida, which, while beneficial for older adults seeking community, have inadvertently isolated them from younger generations.
Practical Steps to Foster Intergenerational Bonds
The conversation shifts to practical solutions for bridging the generational divide. Eunice suggests, “Cogenerational service is a beautiful way to both make a difference in your community and connect across generations” (12:18). Examples include intergenerational housing models, such as university-based retirement communities and duplexes that house both students and older adults collaboratively. Additionally, she highlights initiatives like Bridge Meadows in Oregon, which integrates foster families with retired older adults to create a supportive community environment.
Challenges in Building Intergenerational Relationships
While the benefits of intergenerational connections are emphasized, Eunice acknowledges the friction that can arise. She advises, “Don't start with the advice giving. Get to know me, and when I get to know you, I will ask for advice that I need and want” (22:32). This approach counters the traditional mentor-mentee dynamic, promoting mutual respect and understanding instead.
Perspectives on Aging and Future Directions
Natalie Brennan shares her anxieties about aging, particularly concerning where to "age up" in a society that often isolates older adults. Eunice responds by highlighting the importance of creating and supporting communities that integrate different age groups. Yasmin adds, “Generations aren't real... But by holding onto this notion of generations, we're unnecessarily pitting people of different age groups against each other” (28:58).
Innovative Solutions and Success Stories
The hosts discuss successful intergenerational projects, such as:
- Mirabella at Arizona State University: Residents have access to campus facilities, fostering daily interactions between students and older adults.
- Creative Writing Classes at Drexel University: These classes brought together students and elders, leading to collaborative housing projects like duplexes that promote shared living.
Eunice also mentions unique housing solutions tailored to specific communities, such as the LGBT-focused senior centers that incorporate housing for both older adults and young people aging out of foster care.
Conclusion: Moving Forward Together
The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to engage in intergenerational activities. Eunice emphasizes service and community involvement as effective ways to build meaningful relationships across age groups. Natalie reflects on personal relationships, noting how viewing her father as someone who still feels young has positively impacted her perspective on aging.
Yasmin underscores the importance of dismantling generational barriers, advocating for a society where age is not the defining factor of one's role or value. “If everyone is walking around thinking they're younger than they actually are... maybe we wouldn't have such a hard time imagining relationships with people who are chronologically much older” (35:03).
Notable Quotes
- Eunice Nichols (04:09): “We're living in the most age-diverse time in human history for the next 10 years. This incredible diverse age population is a gift to us if we seize that opportunity.”
- Eunice Nichols (22:32): “Don't start with the advice giving. Get to know me, and when I get to know you, I will ask for advice that I need and want.”
- Yasmin Tayag (28:58): “Generations aren't real... But by holding onto this notion of generations, we're unnecessarily pitting people of different age groups against each other.”
- Yasmin Tayag (35:03): “If everyone is walking around thinking they're younger than they actually are... maybe we wouldn't have such a hard time imagining relationships with people who are chronologically much older.”
Final Thoughts
How to Age Up Together offers a compelling exploration of the challenges and opportunities inherent in our age-diverse society. By highlighting innovative solutions and advocating for deeper connections across generations, The Atlantic underscores the necessity of evolving our cultural narratives to keep pace with scientific advancements in understanding aging. Listeners are encouraged to actively participate in building a more integrated and supportive community that values the contributions of all age groups.