Jenn Taylor, an associate professor at UW-La Crosse, teamed up with AARP Wisconsin to create a program called Walk with an Eagle. When it launched in 2023, she was unsure if many people would show up, but to her surprise, 15 students and 20 older adults came together.
“It was amazing to see how quickly they connected,” Taylor says. After the first walk, students couldn’t stop sharing how much they had in common with their older partners. “Everyone really values that bond,” she adds, noting that participants range in age from 55 to 90, with one walker celebrating their 91st birthday this year.
Darrin Wasniewski from AARP Wisconsin, who worked with Taylor on this effort, explained that usually two or three community members walk alongside one college student. “The college students end up loving it just as much as the older participants,” he says.
Meanwhile, in Milwaukee, another AARP program called Walk with a Doc is underway. Doctors lead walks every other week, covering topics like sleep and exercise. This initiative is part of the national Walk with a Doc program that started in 2022 and has now expanded across several communities.
Amber Miller, another AARP Wisconsin leader, emphasizes the intergenerational nature of their walks. “Our youngest walker is just 6 years old, joining her grandma and great-grandma,” she shares. This mix of ages enriches the experience for everyone involved.
Interestingly, studies show that intergenerational programs can enhance social connections and improve mental well-being. According to recent research from the Journal of Intergenerational Relationships, active engagement across age groups leads to better physical and mental health outcomes for seniors, while also fostering empathy in younger participants.
These walking programs are more than just exercise; they create a space for rich conversations and learning. Whether it’s sharing stories or discussing health tips, everyone leaves with new insights and stronger connections.
Programs like these illustrate the importance of community and the value of intergenerational interactions. As people walk side by side, they not only improve their health but also build a supportive network that transcends age barriers.
For more insights on the benefits of intergenerational activities, you can explore findings from the AARP’s research on community engagement here.
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walking, Walk with a Doc, cardio, UW LaCrosse, Wisconsin, AARP Wisconsin
