Brightening Lives Through Multigenerational Programs

Each of Hebrew SeniorLife’s multigenerational programs serves as a key touchpoint for the broader community, engaging youth and their families in learning about the full spectrum of aging and developing relationships with our senior population. Participants in these group programs are often inspired to deepen their connections to the seniors they meet, well after the programs have concluded. One such example involves two families who participated in a guided music program for infants and HRC-Boston patients, overseen by HSL’s Adam and Matan Adelson Multigenerational Program.

Amid the flurry of the holidays, a group of community volunteers brought flowers and beams of sunshine to Hebrew Rehabilitation Center in Boston.

The visitors – two mothers, their toddlers, and two nannies – were initially introduced to the Boston campus through a series of facilitated, multigenerational music programs that they attended with their children during the fall. In celebration of the holidays, they planned a return visit to campus to reconnect with patients and spread good cheer throughout the building.

On a dreary, raw December morning, the group arrived at the main entrance, carrying dozens of fresh carnations and daisies. As staff guided them around the floors, the visitors’ impact on patients’ spirits was striking. One woman didn’t speak, but burst into joyful tears when the visitors greeted her and presented her with a flower. For this patient, the smiles and presence of young children were meaningful beyond measure— no words required.