Tips for Communicating with and Supporting Members of the Silent Generation

Many caregivers today are responsible for assisting members of the Silent Generation. This generation of people, born between 1928 and 1945, was brought up during a time that led them to develop many unique characteristics. Therefore, it’s important to understand how to interact with them in a relatable way to foster the greatest connection.

Why is this age group called the Silent Generation?

Often told to be “seen and not heard” when they were children, the “Silent Generation” was first given the name in a 1951 TIME magazine essay to describe their perceived passivity and cautiousness.

Also known as the Traditionalist Generation due to their conventional morals and ethics, this generation’s behavior has been attributed to the difficult times in which they were raised, including the Great Depression and World War II. These events also led to low fertility rates, meaning this generation is comparatively smaller than others.

Many members of the Silent Generation fought in World War II, which significantly impacted their lives. During postwar economic prosperity, they also thrived, with many taking advantage of fixed mortgages and defined-benefit pension plans.

What characteristics define the Silent Generation?

The Silent Generation are known for adhering to traditional values and societal norms, and are often seen as rule-followers and conformists. Growing up in lean times led them to save their hard-earned money and develop thrifty habits and a fiscally conservative approach.

The Silent Generation values duty, dedication, sacrifice, and patriotism. They’re respectful of authority and hold hierarchy and experience in high regard. They also believe strongly in hard work and putting in long hours, and are known for their loyalty, with many having worked for the same company their entire career.

Tips for communicating with members of the Silent Generation

Despite their name, the Silent Generation communicates quite well when you approach them properly. Here are some things to keep in mind when interacting with members of this generation who are in your care:

  • They prefer face-to-face communication whenever possible, or phone calls if you can’t talk to them in person.
  • They appreciate handwritten notes, letters, and cards.
  • They enjoy receiving information from printed materials such as brochures, newsletters, and direct mail.
  • Use direct, straightforward communication and avoid jargon and cliches.
  • Consider their level of comfort with technology use; some seniors are more digitally literate than others.
  • Be patient and give them your undivided attention, listening closely, using eye contact, and observing their body language.
  • Respect their experience and acknowledge their wisdom by consulting them on important questions. Approach them with empathy and avoid being overly prescriptive.
  • Get to know their family members, as family often plays a significant role in their lives. Build relationships with their children and grandchildren and foster familial experiences around holidays and important milestones.

How a meal delivery program can support older adults and caregivers

Members of the Silent Generation often don’t want to be a burden or ask for help—and that includes help with meals. That’s why LiveWell with Traditions can be a great source of support for both older adults and their caregivers. We offer direct-to-door delivery of medically tailored meals as a health plan benefit for eligible seniors, so you always know proper nutrition is available. Our friendly, trained drivers will help unload meals and conduct wellness checks. If the member has questions, they can contact our call center representatives or discuss with a registered dietitian directly. Everyone at our organization is well-versed in good communication with members of the Silent Generation and those who care for them.

Our meal benefit program will also give you the peace of mind that those in your care will always have a healthy meal ready to heat and eat. To see if a senior in your care qualifies for our meal delivery service as a benefit, check with their health insurance company, or contact LiveWell with Traditions for more information.

Sources:
https://etfdb.com/practice-management/engaging-silent-generation/
https://www.familysearch.org/en/blog/silent-generation-characteristics

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