Being Well with Forrest Hanson and Dr. Rick Hanson

Fighting the Loneliness Epidemic and the Power of Intergenerational Friendships: Feed Drop

13 snips
Nov 6, 2025
Kyle Robidoux, Executive Director of FriendshipWorks, dives into the pressing issue of social isolation among older adults and the transformative power of intergenerational friendships. He shares the inspiring story of Peter and Pooja, who defy age barriers through their weekly chats, evolving from a volunteer match to a cherished bond. The discussion highlights the benefits of community-driven programs, the prevalence of loneliness in older demographics, and how mutual support between generations enriches lives. Kyle emphasizes actionable steps for anyone eager to make meaningful connections.
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ANECDOTE

Instant Intergenerational Bond

  • Peter and Pooja met through Friendship Works and hit it off immediately over Zoom.
  • Their match felt like an instant, decades-long friendship rather than a formal program pairing.
INSIGHT

Friendships Grow, Don't Get Built

  • Friendships grow organically like plants rather than being constructed forcefully.
  • Peter and Frances compare cultivating friendship to planting and tending a seed on a windowsill.
ANECDOTE

Listening Became Real Support

  • Pooja and Peter share honest conversations where Peter listens and helps her think things through.
  • Those talks helped Pooja feel grounded and navigate personal challenges.
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