Age Concern supports Youth Week

Age Concern New Zealand is looking forward to Youth Week: 22 - 30 May, saying it's a good opportunity to strengthen the connections between the generations.

"We're asking grandparents and other older people to connect with young people, and for young people to do the same with the older adults in their lives" says Liz Baxendine, President of Age Concern New Zealand.

“With families being geographically spread out these days contact between the generations can sometimes be lost. But technology like Skype and texting, that both young people and older people can learn, are helping to bridge this gap.

"Older and younger people may both be surprised how much they have in common. I know many older people who have a youthful outlook on life and love spending time with young people. Getting to know each other also helps to breakdown the negative stereotypes and myths that exist about both youth and older people”.

Young people benefit when caring adults have time to listen to them, get involved with their interests, and give advice and support without judging them.

Grandparents and other older people benefit from knowing that a young person they care about has someone to turn to when they need it.

Age Concern urges older people to support Youth Week by getting involved with a youth week activity, or by strengthening a connection with a young person in their life.

For Youth Week events, see www.youthweek.co.nz

ENDS

© Scoop Media