Beat ‘Blue Monday’ with Intergenerational joy

Written By Jenny Reed

Blue Monday—dubbed the "saddest day of the year"—falls on the third Monday of January. While it’s not a scientific phenomenon, many people find this time of year tough. The festive season feels like a distant memory, the weather is gloomy, and resolutions can start to lose momentum. But there is a way to lift spirits and brighten those January blues: intergenerational activities!

At The Together Project, we know the power of connection. Whether through the giggles of babies/toddlers and older people at our Songs & Smiles sessions or the heartfelt exchanges of artwork in our Crafting Connections programme, intergenerational activities can transform wellbeing for everyone involved.

The science of smiles

Loneliness can take a toll on mental health. For older people, it’s particularly common, with 1 in 4 experiencing feelings of isolation (Age UK, "All the Lonely People"). Parents and guardians of young children can also find it hard to connect with others. Intergenerational activities create a unique space for joy, belonging, and meaningful connection—a natural antidote to loneliness.

Our Songs & Smiles sessions bring little ones aged 0-4, and their grown-ups into care settings to share music, laughter, and play with residents. These simple interactions spark magical moments: a shared smile, a resident’s eyes lighting up at a favourite nursery rhyme, or a little one holding hands with someone new.

An older resident, with her hands in the air waving a bright pink scarf with a huge smile on her face at a Songs & Smiles session.

In Crafting Connections, residents and children exchange handmade artwork monthly. It’s a creative bridge between generations, encouraging communication, imagination, and mutual appreciation. It’s amazing how a small act, like caring enough to send someone some artwork each month, can have such a BIG impact.

Why it works

Shared activities between generations can:

  • Reduce feelings of loneliness and depression. For example, research by Generations United demonstrates how intergenerational programmes effectively combat isolation and improve emotional wellbeing in both older and younger participants.

  • Improve cognitive function and memory in older people. Studies published in The Journal of Aging Studies and The American Academy of Neurology highlight that social engagement with younger generations can enhance cognitive health and memory retention.

  • Boost social skills and confidence in children. Findings by Generations United and the International Journal of Early Childhood show that intergenerational activities develop empathy, communication, and confidence in young children.

  • Create a sense of community and purpose for all participants. Reports from Age UK and research by Harvard University’s Center on the Developing Child underscore how intergenerational programmes foster a shared sense of belonging and purpose across generations.

How you can get involved

This Blue Monday, why not take a step to spread joy? Join us for a Songs & Smiles session or sign up for Crafting Connections. You’ll be part of something magical: a community where generations come together to share, create, and uplift one another.

Let’s turn Blue Monday into a day of smiles and connection. Together, we can brighten even the gloomiest of days.

Jenny Reed
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