Ask residents what they enjoy most about living at Dallas Retirement Village, and many will mention the kids at our Little Sprouts Childcare. Being just around the corner from a children’s daycare means residents have frequent opportunities to interact with a younger generation and many say it’s a genuine highlight of their day. Research backs this up: older adults who spend regular time with young children often experience better moods, sharper thinking, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Even with these clear benefits, communities that offer true intergenerational care are hard to find. At Dallas Retirement Village, we’re happy to make it part of everyday life. Read on to learn more about intergenerational care and its benefits.
What Is Intergenerational Care?
Intergenerational care refers to programs that intentionally bring different age groups together on a regular basis, most often children and older adults, through shared activities and everyday interaction. This can look like story time, art projects, music, gardening, or sharing a meal together. At Dallas Retirement Village, some of our favorite joint activities include outings with Memory Care and recess at the park with Assisted Living residents.
Intergenerational care differs from occasional visits or holiday events. It is built into the regular rhythm of a community, giving residents ongoing opportunities to spend time around children rather than a single scheduled visit once or twice a year.
At Dallas Retirement Village, Little Sprouts Childcare is part of that everyday rhythm, giving residents natural, built-in opportunities to be around children as part of daily campus life.
What the Research on Intergenerational Care Shows
Intergenerational programs have been studied for years, and the findings point to real benefits for older adults.
- Better mood and reduced depression – A systematic review published in PMC found that intergenerational activities trended toward improvements in self-esteem and reduced levels of depression among older adults.
- Sharper thinking – The same review found a cognitive benefit for older adults who took part in intergenerational programs, measured using standard cognitive assessments, compared to those who did not.
- Less social isolation – A systematic review on non-familial intergenerational programs found consistent evidence that these programs help reduce social isolation while increasing cognitive functioning and overall health in older adults.
- Stronger sense of connection and well-being – A 2025 systematic review in International Psychogeriatrics looked at 26 intergenerational programs and found that most reported improved well-being and social connectedness among older participants.
- Better overall quality of life – A systematic review of intergenerational programs involving school-age children and older adults found significant improvements in mental and physical health, as well as quality of life, among participating older adults.
A Natural Fit for Life at Dallas Retirement Village
Dallas Retirement Village has been part of the neighborhood for nearly 80 years. Little Sprouts Childcare reflects that same community-first approach. Staff members care for residents, and residents get to pour love into the children and grandchildren of the very people who care for them each day. If you would like to see Little Sprouts Childcare and the rest of our 30-acre campus in person, schedule a tour today.