Multigenerational Connections

Get Inspired: Helping Elderly Stay Connected

Multigenerational connection. We've all experienced bouts of loneliness, isolation, and sadness in our lives. Isolation disproportionately effects seniors and current health risks leave many in need of a their community. Today, we invite your family to think about the importance of community connection and how you can help combat senior isolation.

Building connections with others helps to improve our mental health. Check out these multigenerational friendships bringing care and cheer while supporting each other through challenging times.

Let’s Talk

After watching the video on senior isolation, use the questions below to kick-start a great conversation with your family:

• What stood out to you about the relationships in the video? What made you smile?

• Why is it important to check in on people who may be experiencing isolation? What are some ways you can reach out?

• What makes you feel better when you are feeling lonely?

• Bonus! Reach out to an older family member or friend and check in! Share a funny story, tell them about something you learned, and ask if there's anything you can do to support them.

Do Something: Support a Senior Neighbor

Bring cheer to a senior in your community. We all can do a little something special to support our neighbors. Supporting seniors in your neighborhood is a great way to combat isolation and build community.

Brainstorm how you can show community care with your family! Gather up some self-care items and make a care package to deliver on a senior neighbors front stoop. Lotion, tea, your favorite book, fuzzy socks, and some extra PPE! Write a nice note to your neighbor to complete the care package.

Want to go the extra mile? Cook a meal with your family and let your neighbor know you’re bringing them a yummy treat. There’s nothing like a home cooked meal to build community and let people know that their neighbors are there for them.

Community Connections: Wellness Checks

Send letters to bring cheer. We're partnering with the Cook County Public Guardian's Office to send letters, drawings, and uplifting notes to Chicago seniors. The Cook County Public Guardian is the court appointed guardian for over 800 adults with varying levels of physical and cognitive disabilities.  Most of these adults are living in nursing facilities or supportive living facilities and are facing isolation.

We're all in this together, and that means checking in with one another, taking care of our community members, and spreading joy where we can. Mail your letters and pictures to Honeycomb HQ and we will compile them and send them along to the Guardian's Office.

The Honeycomb Project

ATTN: Public Guardian's Office

1030 W North Ave

Ste 102

Chicago IL 60642

In your letter, write about something that makes you happy. Remember to use large print that is easily legible. Keep your messages lighthearted and fun – thank you for spreading some cheer!