A new look at intergenerational dialogue

To say that Chile is an aging country is a statement that surprises no one and that, many times, seems to be obvious. However, when we face the real dimension that this implies, we realize that we have not incorporated significant changes that allow us to face this reality in a fluid way. That is why there is no better opportunity than to take advantage of the last remaining days of October, Month of the Elderly, to share the following reflection.
One of the best ways to generate a new look at aging and how much we can advance as a society is through intergenerational relationships. One of the best examples we can find is the documentary 100 days with Tata (Netflix), which narrates the life in confinement between a grandson and his Tata, almost 100 years old. It is a story of overcoming, strength, mental health, care of dependent people and also caregivers but it is, above all, a story of universal love and how each one contributes what is typical of his “generation”. In the documentary, this becomes a reality when we realize that Tata’s success in social networks lies in, on the one hand, opening a new world where interaction with millions of people is possible (thus removing the fear of loneliness) and, on the other, in connecting with the longing of many to learn from the lives of their elderly loved ones. 
If we look at our daily lives, the first steps can be simple: the youngest -just as an example-, can share in a café the cultural identity of their core and the experience of those who have already lived events that they may possibly experience in the future. Older people in turn can learn from younger people, which allows them to stay active and updated in different areas of knowledge; in generating support networks that can be key to avoiding the feeling of loneliness. 
At a time when dialogue and recognition of the other as an equal are the basis for the development of a more empathetic and humane society, let us make intergenerational relations a priority. Only by highlighting the importance of older people in society and highlighting the positive impact that younger generations have on older generations can we move forward, all together, towards a better country.
 
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The content expressed in this opinion column is the sole responsibility of its author, and does not necessarily reflect the editorial line or position of El Mostrador.

Original source in Spanish

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