Intergenerational Friendships are the Ultimate Antidote to Ageism
How friendships across generations shatter stereotypes and inspire pro aging conversations.
✨ Intergenerational friendships are the ultimate antidote to ageism ✨
Meet my dear friend Emily Aborn ... she’s 30 years younger than I am, and yet our friendship is effortless, joyful, and full of learning in both directions. 🤗 💖
Why do I believe these friendships matter so much?
🔹 They shatter stereotypes: Our differences in age open doors to understanding, not limitation.
🔹 They foster curiosity: We learn from each other’s perspectives, experiences, and energy.
🔹 They normalize aging: Seeing older adults living fully and proudly inspires younger friends ... and vice versa.
🔹 They build empathy: Generations connect over shared humanity, not assumptions.
Being comfortable aging out loud and proud is a radical act.
It means owning your experiences, celebrating your years, and yes ... being the oldest person in the room without shrinking back.
Age isn’t something to hide. It’s something to wear like a badge of honor. 💪
Excited to share that this Saturday I’ll be speaking on the “Ageism in Media” panel at the Gerontological Society of America (GSA) Future of Aging Summit in Boston!
This summit, organized by passionate students and young professionals, brings together aspiring visionaries in gerontology to explore biomedical advances, policy reform, and social impact.
🎟️ Registration is open if you want to attend - https://fs8.formsite.com/GSA1945/5jcg1ojjmb/index.
I’m grateful for Emily and for all the friends, young and old, who remind me every day that meaningful friendships transcend age ... and that when we embrace our age openly, we help change the narrative for everyone.
Waving from Boston and wishing you a delicious day, everywhere you GLOW - cheers!
Ande - I couldn't agree more. I'm 73; my youngest close friend is 30 and my oldest is 90. I also have the added joy of close friendships with our three kids and their spouses, (all 35-45) and of building friendships with my grandkids, who range in age from 5 months to 15 years. I also have colleagues from 29 to 75 in my company (where I now get to be a 'tribal elder.'
I think being in the lives of so many people of different generations - and having all kinds of interactions, from silly to serious, world-changing to chatty, innovative to routine - does indeed shatter stereotypes.
I had an unexpected friend who moved in next door for 6 months from Estonia. Thankfully she spoke better English than I did. 30 years between us but we became fast friends. Unfortunately she had to return to Estonia and with a young child and job we have drifted from the regular communication we had but I know, and she knows, that forever there will be a bond we both cherished during that time. 69/38
That said I know of people in their 50's who would never consider becoming pals with someone my age.