One of my most poignant final memories of my grandma before she passed away was sitting in her living room with her and other family members and taking turns tossing a ball into a wastebasket. Surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, her eyes lit up as she sank her armchair shot from 10 feet away. At 97 years old, the once-talented tennis player was able to give her youngest family members a glimpse of her youth and athleticism.
In our fast-paced world where generations may struggle to find common ground, movement is universal. “When it comes to movement for mixed abilities, remember that there are many ways to move a body,” notes Bowman. (1) “Gardening, (2) playground time, (3) playful dancing, (4) doing art, or (5) cooking and baking are a few examples of movements where everyone can go at their own pace and ability.”
Sports and games that accommodate a wide range of ages include (6) bowling, (7) beanbags/cornhole, (8) mini golf, (9) disc golf, and (10) pickleball, which has exploded over the past few years. “Pickleball is a great equalizer — a 10-year-old can play with an 80-year-old,” says Rivera.
Everyone wins when mixed generations move together. “Youth can learn new physical skills from older members, while the older generation can stay updated with new trends and technologies through the younger ones,” says Sabrena Jo, PhD, director of science and research at the American Council on Exercise. “Intergenerational activities help to break down stereotypes about age, promoting understanding and respect across generations.”
Move More as a Family
Movement connects and brings us together, cutting across generational lines and sparking joy and camaraderie. Give some of the ideas at “100 Ways to Move as a Family” (from which this article was excerpted) a try as you get active with your family, friends, and community.
