August• 2017 | 7NORAH WOOD HAS A HEART OF GOLDand the special ability
torecognise when a stranger needed her most. What makes Norah
particularly amazing is that she’s only four years old. ‘When Norah Met
Mr Dan’ (page 56) tells the heart-warming story of how this little girl
drew an elderly widower out of his grief and into the welcome
surrounds of her family. Through her childish innocence and simple
act of kindness Norah has transformed the lives of her family and Dan
for the better.
While you don’t have to be elderly to feel the impact of social
isolation, often seniors can find it a challenge to stay connected. In ‘At
Home Together’ (page 82) we take a look at the rise of intergenerational
retirement homes in Europe. In its simplest form, this idea gives young
adults and retirees a place to call home, but it offers so
much more. Set up in 2012 as a response to a shortage
of housing among the young, the programme has
proved surprisingly successful not least because both
groups are able to help each other, sharing insight
and mutual wisdom. While it may not be the
solution that suits everyone, it’s certainly changed
the lives of those who have embraced this novel
housing arrangement. Food for thought.
I trust you’ll enjoy what’s on offer this month,
we certainly enjoyed putting the issue together.
Happy reading!
Editor’s Note
Across the Ages
LOUISE WATERSON
Managing Editor