I recently had a conversation with someone who shared a fear — a fear of supporting someone older because “they’ve lived more life than me, and the generation gap might make it hard to understand them.”

And that hit me.

Not long after that conversation, I was assigned one of my key clients who was significantly older than me. Suddenly, the very fear they described became a reality I had to face. I found myself wondering: Would my younger perspective limit my understanding? Would my age affect the way they trusted me? Could I genuinely support someone who had lived through so much?

At first, the age gap felt like a barrier — one that I wasn’t sure I could cross. But gradually, I learned that support work isn’t about matching someone’s age or life history. It’s about empathy, presence, and genuine care. It’s about showing up, listening without judgment, and meeting someone where they are today.

Through active listening, therapeutic approaches, and regular supervision, I realised that connection is built on humanity, not age. The generational gap that once felt intimidating became a bridge — a space where respect, patience, and understanding created trust.

This experience taught me that you don’t need to have lived the same number of years to be able to help someone. What matters is sincerity, consistency, and the courage to learn alongside the people you support.