Intergenerational learning: exchanges between young and old | Jurriën Mentink | TEDxAmsterdamED

In many university towns, there is a shortage of affordable student housing. In those same towns, elderly people often live in isolation in nursing homes, where learning ceases. What happens when you try to solve multiple social issues with one solution? In Deventer, what happened is the creation of an intergenerational learning model which has had incredible effects on its participants. By offering students free housing in nursing homes in exchange for time spent with its residents, this solution proposed by a Dutch student has stimulated one of the most beautiful and effective intergenerational learning models in the Netherlands. So simple, in fact, that it's an idea worth spreading far and wide.
In his funny and touching talk, Jurriën Mentink will describe the initiative in Deventer and the results of a simple experiment gone right.
Jurriën Mentink, a student of Urban Design at the Saxion University of Applied Sciences, is one of a handful of students who live at the Humanitas Residential and Care Center, a long-term aged care facility in Deventer, the Netherlands. He lives rent-free in exchange for 30 hours of volunteer work per month, during which he helps the elderly residents in various activities, from teaching them computer skills, to having meals and meaningful conversations together, that ultimately enriches all their lives.
For more information go to: humanitasdeventer.nl
This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at ted.com/tedx

[@nikkiheatherington715]

This was so heart warming and such a wonderful opportunity that is offered. Making a difference to others, and learning about how everyone is important and should be treated with respect and kindness, and the willingness to help our fellow humans no matter what age you are. We all become old eventually, and we should always treat others the way we would want to be treated. The older people do have so much to offer, with their experience and their wisdom. Thank you for sharing!

[@ginguz1]

More people like Jurrien!! thank you for that.

[@andreacosta3727]

Thank you for sharing this inspiring experience!

[@flyeagl]

So needed here in Australia Esspecially after this crazy time of separation

[@sandysummerof6955]

What a cool guy. Great video. Thank you.