The Intergenerational Studies program, held in the East Brunswick Senior Center in New Jersey, under the guidance of sociology teacher Richard Koenigsberg, brings high school youth and seniors together to discuss their similarities and differences.
Koenigsberg told the Sentinel: “What we do is we try to bridge the generation gap between teenagers and the senior citizens.” He added, “It does help us break down barriers and stereotypes of senior citizens.”
Elvis and his rockabilly pals is foremost in the mind of senior citizen, Carole Doerr. “They would not have the music they have today if it weren’t for rock and roll,” she told the media source.
The changes in technology over the decades is a subject of high importance to participants. High school senior Jessica Acosta told the media source: "If you talk to any one of them, the first thing they tell you about when they were a kid, is when they got a TV.” She continued: “That’s like the big thing for them.”
The Beatles get the favored nod as the intergenerational group because The Fab Four has held on to its popularity for older citizens and youth.
The central idea is to develop a sense of understanding and respect. 'Sock it to me!'
Intergenerational Studies are rockin' in Active Lifestyle and Continuing Care facilities.