2020 has been an undoubtedly tough one for us all. In fact, the whole world has had to face up to the crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic. One study even found that about half of Canadians and Americans were prepared to say this had been the worst year ever. And that was in August. Before the most recent spike in cases.
Over 50's
Tough times call for a sense of community spirit – and for people to do all they can to help their loved ones, friends and neighbours. We might all remember clapping on the doorsteps for the NHS, for example, but while our key workers might have been on the front line in delivering healthcare, others have been on the front line in keeping up spirits amid the doom and gloom.
Over 50s rise to the challenge
It seems that the UK’s over 50s have picked up the baton in that regard and led the way in caring for their communities throughout 2020. While it’s easy to fall into generational stereotypes – and to see age as a big dividing line in society – this group has led by example.
A study from Legal & General found that over 50s are the most likely group to have done a favour for a neighbour in 2020 – with 29% having done so, compared to 15% of those aged 20 and under
Over 50s have also led by example when it comes to following government guidelines too – with two thirds saying they had done so ‘closely’ throughout the year. That compares to just 31% for those under 20.
LGI Direct Managing Director Paula Llewellyn commented: “The purpose of this survey was to find out more about who the real unsung heroes of the Covid-19 pandemic are. 2020 has given us a lot of time to reflect and, as the survey suggests, has made us realise the importance of caring and looking out for those around us, strangers or not.
“The data quite clearly hails the over 50s for all of the effort they have put in over the last nine months to keep their communities going.”
Retirees return to the fold
Many pensioners have also rolled up their sleeves too – with many coming out of retirement to use their skills and experiences to good effect. Indeed, 15,000 retired medics actually re-joined the NHS in some capacity in order to help the fight against coronavirus.
Prerana Issar, Chief People Officer for the NHS, said: “We have been hugely inspired by the sheer number of returning NHS staff, and by their commitment and willingness to help provide great care.”
Time to come together
These days there’s so much talk about a ‘war’ between generations. But, perhaps it has taken a crisis to realise that some things matter more than differences over politics or cultural preferences. When a crisis hit, the generation of parents and grandparents did what they do best – took responsibility and looked after others. Maybe it’s too much to hope – but perhaps this sense of care, respect and togetherness can last long beyond the pandemic and pave the way for a brighter and less antagonistic future.