The ‘silver tsunami’ – millions of Baby Boomers who, thanks to science, are living longer – means the elderly population will have doubled by 2050. Caregivers are already scarce and many elderly folks report increased loneliness and isolation. So who is going to care for them?
The Geriatric Career Development (GCD) Program in New York City tackles this issue along with another big one by offering at-risk urban youth the opportunity to advance into a middle-class career in caregiving.
Local high schoolers can apply to work at the home, gaining training and mentorship to pursue a longterm career in the field.
Stanford recently released a report highlighting the benefits of ‘intergenerational engagement’, arguing that each generation has something to learn from the other. One student, 17-year-old Kayla Rivas, paired up with 91-year-old Joanne Langer because they both shared a passion for music and singing.
“I like to keep to myself, so I’d stay home and get a job,” Celestine, one of the students working through the GCD program told Nationswell.
“I learned that there’s always an open door, no matter where you go. When I see kids on the street, I feel like saying, ‘If you all just knew what GCD could do for you, even if you’ve not finished high school. This is like a change.'”
The statistics are encouraging – about 80% of students who work through this program go on to become CNAs (Certified Nursing Assistants) through a local college. The nursing home also offers opportunities for young adults without a high school diploma.
