I was a geriatrician on Old People’s Home for Teenagers. Here’s why I joined this TV experiment

Many people will have heard about “intergenerational practice” via the TV.

This is the purposeful bringing together of different generations, aiming to benefit all involved. It’s the idea central to ABC TV’s Old People’s Home for Teenagers, and its predecessor Old People’s Home for 4 Year Olds. Both show the positive aspects of mixing age groups, for the older people featured, as well as the teenagers or preschoolers.

I’m a geriatrician, a doctor who specializes in the medical care of older people, one of two geriatricians who took part in this TV experiment. Here’s why I got involved.

The benefits of mixing it up

The positive aspects of mixing age groups may seem intuitive. Just think of how special it can be when grandparents spend time with their grandchildren. When older and younger peopleare together, each can share their experiences and perspectives. Meaningful connections can develop.