A Playful Exchange of Knowledge

The second session of ‘Senior and Playful,’ held at the casino de Huesca, saw a remarkable turnout, necessitating a move to a larger venue. This event, a collaborative effort by the City of Huesca’s social services, Youth Area, and the City Council of Girls and Boys, aims to bridge the digital divide between generations.

Children, often immersed in screens and artificial intelligence from a young age, are given the prospect to share their knowledge with seniors. Conversely, they also learn about the traditional games and pastimes of their elders, fostering a mutual exchange of skills and experiences.

Innovative Gadgets Spark Joy and Learning

The event featured a range of engaging technologies, including virtual reality headsets, cat-shaped robots that vocalized “Miau,” and lifelike baby dolls. These materials, provided by the Integrated Public Center for Vocational Training Montearagón, proved to be a major attraction.

According to recent studies, intergenerational programs like ‘Senior and playful’ can have important benefits for both age groups. Seniors can experience improved cognitive function and reduced social isolation, while children develop empathy and interaction skills. For example, a 2024 study by the Gerontology Society of America found that seniors who participate in intergenerational programs report a 20% increase in life satisfaction.

City Officials Champion Technological Inclusion

Huesca’s Mayor, Lorena Orduna, along with Marta Escartín (Councilor for Social Action, Family and Growth Cooperation) and Guillermo Gómez (Councilor for Education, Children and Youth), attended the session, demonstrating the city’s commitment to this initiative.

The first session already had a formidable success and this will have even more as we have introduced new technologies that we are all going to enjoy.Surely it will be an afternoon in which let’s learn a lot.
Lorena Orduna, Mayor of Huesca

Orduna emphasized the city council’s enthusiasm for providing access to these novel technologies, highlighting the animated robots and 3D glasses as notably exciting additions.

A Model for Intergenerational Programs

‘Senior and Playful’ exemplifies a proactive approach to bridging the generation gap and promoting digital literacy across all age groups. By fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing, Huesca is creating a more inclusive and connected community.

Children are going to teach new technologies to our elders.
Lorena Orduna, Mayor of Huesca, on the program’s reciprocal learning dynamic.

The success of this program underscores the importance of institutional coordination in facilitating such initiatives. As technology continues to evolve, programs like ‘senior and Playful’ will play a crucial role in ensuring that all members of society can participate fully in the digital world.