Young hearts for lonely seniors: A project connects generations!

Young hearts for lonely seniors: A project connects generations!

There's really something going on in Leutesdorf! On June 17, 2025, around 30 children from the Leutesdorf elementary school visited the seniors in the Rheinwaldheim. This warm exchange is part of the “Students Visit Seniors” project, which was fortunately revived after the Corona pandemic. Headmistress Bettina Kliesrath reported that the children were divided into two groups in order to individually respond to the wishes and needs of the older generation. Erwin Betzing, who plays music every 14 days in the Rheinwaldheim, not only delighted the seniors, but also conveyed a touch of joie de vivre.

The stated aim of this project is to counteract loneliness among seniors, a hot topic. A study shows that around one in ten older people in Germany is affected by loneliness. In an increasingly complex and fast-paced society, the loss of social contacts often leads to isolation. While age itself is not the cause of loneliness, factors such as health limitations and social isolation play a crucial role. This reinforces the importance of such initiatives to promote interpersonal relationships.

A nationwide commitment

The “Students visit seniors” project is not alone. It follows on from the nationwide “Students Help Seniors” program, which has been active since April 2017. Initiated by the HelpAge Germany association and supported by the Federal Ministry for Senior Citizens, this project aims to connect generations and strengthen social cohesion. It offers schools instructions, materials and online tools to give students an overview and to develop an awareness of the needs of the older generation.

During the campaign period, various formats are offered that promote exchange between generations. Topics from everyday life and questions about aging are in the foreground. It is a valuable opportunity to approach each other and develop understanding. And the schools also benefit enormously from this collaboration, which relies on dialogue and community.

The effect of encounters

The positive effects of such encounters should not be underestimated. The quality of social relationships can make a significant contribution to the quality of life of older people. A lack of social contact is not only subjectively stressful, but can also have negative health consequences. This is what experts say in their studies: Loneliness has a direct impact on the physical and mental well-being of those affected.

Such initiatives are needed now more than ever. If you consider that, according to a Forsa survey, more than 22% of people over 75 are often or occasionally lonely, the urgent need for action becomes clear. The revitalization of the project in schools like in Leutesdorf is therefore of immense importance. Students and seniors make each other shine and open doors to new friendships.

In Leutesdorf we will demonstrate how easy it is to break down barriers and strengthen cooperation. Such encounters not only offer the seniors a ray of hope, but also the children a variety of learning opportunities based on respectful dialogue. There is a real win-win situation here that is worth spreading.

Keep following us to learn more about this and similar projects!

In summary, it should be noted that encounters between generations are invaluable. Whether in Leutendorf or elsewhere, the exchange not only promotes social cohesion, but also significantly enriches the lives of everyone involved.

For detailed information about the nationwide project, visit bmfsfj.de and for deeper insights into the topic of loneliness, look up malteser.de. The rhein-zeitung.de also has exciting news on this topic.