Use of English

Across the Generations

Families and communities are often strongest when people of different ages stay closely connected. In many places, however, modern life has (0) MADE it easier for generations to live separately and spend less time together. As a result, younger people may miss the chance to learn from older relatives, while older people can feel cut (1) .......... from everyday life. Intergenerational relationships can (2) .......... a valuable role in building understanding between age groups. Teenagers may turn to grandparents for advice they would not ask their parents for, and older people often (3) .......... great satisfaction from feeling useful and listened to. In return, younger generations can help older relatives keep (4) .......... with changes in technology and modern culture. These connections also help break (5) .......... stereotypes. Young people may discover that older adults are more open-minded than expected, while older people may realise that teenagers are more responsible than they are often (6) .......... credit for. Even simple shared activities, such as cooking, walking or telling stories, can have a positive (7) .......... on mental health and confidence. For this reason, schools and community centres should create more chances for different generations to spend time together. Strong intergenerational ties can (8) .......... everyone feel supported, respected and less alone.