Art of Aging: Four Intergenerational Strategies That Fight Ageism

This week on the Art of Aging, Rev. Beth Long-Higgins talks with Dr. Shannon Jarrott, a social work professor and intergenerational programming expert at Ohio State University, about how intentional connections between younger and older people improve health, well-being, and communities. They explore Shannon’s personal path into intergenerational work, how these relationships can combat ageism and reshape our expectations of aging, and why dementia and other serious symptoms should never be dismissed as “just getting old.” The conversation covers designing age-inclusive spaces, from playgrounds and churches to workplaces, the importance of preparing staff and participants for intergenerational programs, and seeing intergenerational work not as a one-off activity but as a strategy to advance an organization’s mission. Shannon also reflects on her own aging, the creation of a new Center for Intergenerational Research and Practice, and the need to balance meaningful work with having fun and aging abundantly. Highlights from this week’s conversation include: Welcoming Dr. Shannon Jarrott to the Show (0:37) From Dementia Caregiving Research to Intergenerational Programs (5:01)   What Counts as Intergenerational and Rethinking Age Group Boundaries (7:01) Dementia and Why Symptoms Should Never Be Dismissed (11:45) Orientation for Aging and Teaching Young Adults to Plan for Late Life (13:38) Making Everyday Places More Age-Friendly and Accessible for All (17:51) Designing Architecturally Welcoming Intergenerational Spaces and Programs (18:07) Structuring Rooms and Cues to Encourage Real Intergenerational Interaction (22:14) Talking About Ageism With Young and Older People Together (27:31) Preview of the 2026 Intergenerational Symposium and Four Key Strategies (29:38) Intergenerational Work as a Strategy to Advance Mission, Not Just a Program (35:37) Role Models for Working Longer, Mentoring, and Enjoying Life at Older Ages (38:31) Creating a Center for Intergenerational Research and Practice and Its Vision (41:24) Where to Find Shannon Online and Final Blessing for Aging Abundantly (42:22) Abundant Aging is a podcast series presented by United Church Homes. These shows offer ideas, information, and inspiration on how to improve our lives as we grow older. To learn more and to subscribe to the show, visit abundantagingpodcast.com.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.