Personal prevention theory of “old fogeys”

Dear friends,

In an Italy of old, pseudo-activist scumbags and strange politicians who want to abolish the right to vote for the elderly (https://beppegrillo.it/se-togliessimo-il-diritto-di-voto-agli-anziani/), I feel like sharing a thought that I believe is fundamental for the well-being of our society: the importance of communicating with our elders, especially with our grandparents. In a rapidly changing world, it is easy to lose sight of the inestimable value of the generations that preceded us.

Why is it so crucial to maintain strong bonds with our elders?

1. Experience and Wisdom: Grandparents have lived a lot and have a lot of stories and helpful advice. Their experience can offer us valuable lessons and unique perspectives. A study published in The Gerontologist has shown that interaction between generations can improve the psychological well-being of both older and younger people.

2. Improve Social Cohesion: Maintaining strong bonds with older adults helps create a more united and cohesive society. The more connected we are between generations, the stronger our community becomes. Research from the American Psychological Association has shown that positive intergenerational relationships strengthen the social fabric and promote solidarity.

3. Mental and Emotional Wellbeing: Older adults who are in contact with family and friends are less likely to feel lonely and depressed. A study by National Institute on Aging highlighted that older people with strong social ties have a higher quality of life and a reduced risk of depression.

4. Traditions and Values: Grandparents are custodians of family traditions and cultural values. Learning from them helps us keep these traditions alive and better understand our roots. Studies on the importance of intergenerational transmission of cultural traditions show that these relationships help preserve cultural identity.

5. Fighting Isolation: Loneliness can be devastating. Spending time with our grandparents can help combat this feeling and make their lives fuller and happier. Research published in JAMA Psychiatry found that social isolation is associated with an increased risk of mental and physical illness.

How can we contribute to the well-being of our society through contact with the elderly?

• Regular Visits: Scheduling frequent visits with seniors in our family or community strengthens bonds and shows that we care for them.
• Constant Communication: Use phone calls, video calls, and text messages to stay in touch on a daily basis, even when we’re apart.
• Shared Activities: Involving older adults in shared activities, such as walking, playing games, cooking, or volunteering, enriches our lives and theirs.
• Listening and Recognition: Taking the time to listen to their stories and experiences, showing interest and respect, values ​​their contribution to society.

Think for example of Abraham Simpson, Homer’s father, who is constantly ignored by his family: as a result, this character appears alienated and out of touch with respect to the rest of the Simpsons’ world.

A society that values ​​its seniors is a strong, resilient and harmonious society. Let’s invest time and energy in building meaningful relationships with them. Not only will we improve their quality of life, but we will also build a more cohesive and supportive community for all.

Let’s get started today! Send a message, make a call, or better yet, arrange a visit. Let’s show our seniors how important they are to the well-being of our society.

With gratitude and commitment, Butters Fly

Sources:

1. The Gerontologist, "Intergenerational Relationships and Well-Being"
2. American Psychological Association, "The Benefits of Intergenerational Connections"
3. National Institute on Aging, "Social Relationships and Health: A Flashpoint for Health Policy"
4. Journal of Cross-Cultural Psychology, "The Role of Family in Cultural Transmission"
5. JAMA Psychiatry, "Loneliness and Social Isolation as Risk Factors for Mortality"