The Intergenerational Friendship of Resident Lynn Ryan & IT Specialist Sofia Santiago

When resident Lynn Ryan stops by Sofia’s IT office at Edgehill, it often begins with a familiar question about her phone. Just as often, it ends with a shared story, a moment of laughter or a few minutes of conversation between friends. You could hardly tell that nearly seven decades separate their ages.

Lynn moved to Edgehill after years of living in New Canaan and Darien, Connecticut. Following the passing of her husband, she was ready for the comfort of a community where she could maintain her independence while knowing support and services were nearby if needed. Like many residents, she welcomed the freedom of maintenance-free living and the opportunity to stay active, social and engaged.

Life at Edgehill: Staying Active in Mind, Body and Spirit

Some of Lynn’s favorite activities are participating in exercise classes and wellness programming, including aerobics and strength training led by Edgehill associates. She also attends physical therapy sessions on-site that help her stay strong and mobile.

Beyond fitness, Lynn enjoys attending community lectures, socializing with neighbors and continuing to learn through Edgehill University, a resident-led program where residents can audit courses and share their expertise with one another.

“It’s a pretty busy place,” Lynn says with a smile.

Edgehill thrives not only because of the activities and amenities offered but also because of the associates who help residents make the most of each day. For Lynn, one of those people is Sofia.

Helping Residents Navigate Technology

Sofia joined Edgehill after graduating from Southern Connecticut State University. She quickly became a valued resource for residents who needed help navigating the increasingly digital world. She was promoted to community technology coordinator, expanding her role in supporting residents across Edgehill.

From teaching technology classes to providing one-on-one help with smartphones, email and Zoom meetings, Sofia’s work helps ensure residents stay connected to the people and information that matter most.

“Small things, to me, can be huge things to them,” Sofia says. “Seeing the smiles on their faces after being so worried… it’s heartwarming.”

How Technology Brought Two Generations Together

For Lynn, those “small things” often start with her smartphone.

When asked how the two first met, she laughs. “Because I needed help with my phone!”

Lynn began stopping by the Activities area where Sofia worked, looking for guidance on navigating messages, emails and settings. Sofia stepped in to help and quickly became her trusted resource.

Many days, Sofia helps clear unnecessary messages and notifications from Lynn’s phone, making it easier to use and helping protect her from potential scams.

With Sofia’s guidance and plenty of patience, she continues learning. In fact, Lynn rarely misses one of Sofia’s IT classes. “Mrs. R. has gone to just about every class that I have had,” Sofia says.

Everyday Moments That Built a Friendship

What started as technology support gradually became something more.

Their conversations expanded beyond phones and apps. They began sharing stories about family, dogs and daily life. They worked on crafts together, including gingerbread houses and Valentine’s Day cards.

“We love dogs,” Sofia says. “She will show me pictures of all of her old dogs. I will show her pictures of my dogs.”

Showing Up When It Matters Most

Their friendship deepened even further when Lynn needed additional care and spent time recovering in Edgehill’s Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation neighborhood. Because Edgehill offers a full continuum of care, she was able to receive the support she needed without leaving the community she now calls home.

During that time, Sofia made a point to stop by regularly. “I made it a point to try and visit her twice a day,” she says. “I brought her ice cream… just to make her smile.”

For Lynn, those visits meant a great deal. “We bonded quite well,” she says.

The Power of Multigenerational Friendships

Through their friendship, both women have gained something meaningful.

Lynn has gained confidence navigating the digital world and a trusted person she can rely on. Sofia has gained something just as valuable: perspective, stories and a relationship that feels like family.

“Sometimes I can think of her as like a third grandmother,” Sofia says.

At Edgehill, friendships like this grow naturally. In a community designed to support independence, wellness and connection, residents and associates share daily life together, creating relationships that enrich both generations.

For Lynn and Sofia, what began with a question about a phone has become something far more meaningful: a friendship.