Life is full of twists and turns. No matter how old we are, life's experiences shape and teach us. This knowledge connects people of all ages, especially at events like the East County Intergenerational Games where over 200 participants played hard and lived well!

On October 16, 2014, adults over the age of 50 came together with children between the ages of 7 and 12 for a morning filled with fun non-competitive sporting events, trivia games and much more at La Mesa Middle School.

One of the goals of the Intergenerational Games is to connect local seniors with children. At the Intergenerational Games, working together is a key and valuable component. For seniors, the games are a way to pass on lessons they have learned throughout the years. For children partnering with seniors, the experience teaches them the value of having a positive relationship with a trusted adult.  It’s a win-win all the way around.

Seniors and students teamed up to take part in healthy activities such as T-ball, hula hooping, Frisbee toss, street hockey shot, and other fun activities. Everyone participating in the Intergenerational Games received a medal, as well as a free lunch and snacks.

Hearing the laughter coming from the seniors and seeing the smiles on the children's faces left little doubt the Intergenerational Games were a huge success. The County's Health and Human Services Agency partnered with the City of La Mesa and co-sponsored the games through the East County Community Health Engagement Team and Aging & Independence Services. The games are held across San Diego County throughout the year.

For more information on upcoming Intergenerational Games, contact Pam Plimpton.