Intergenerational Programs: Breaking Down Ageist Barriers and Improving Youth Experiences

Authors

  • Sienna Caspar University of Lethbridge
  • Erin Davis University of Lethbridge
  • Devan Mark Joseph McNeill University of Lethbridge
  • Peter Kellett University of Lethbridge

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18666/TRJ-2019-V53-I2-9126

Keywords:

Dementia care, engagement, non-pharmacological treatment, nursing homes, therapeutic recreation

Abstract

LINKages, a nonprofit organization, aims to bridge the gap between older and younger generations by building intergenerational programs for youth and older adults. The objective of this project was to explore the influence of the LINKages intergenerational program on: a) older adults’ affect and levels of engagement, and b) youth volunteers’ experiences of engagement and perceptions of older adults. An exploratory case study design was used to address the study objectives. Sixty-five residents from four residential care homes and 87 youth volunteers in the LINKages program participated. Data were collected over 7 months. Statistically significant improvements in students’ perceptions of older adults and their experiences of engagement were found following their participation in the LINKages program. Participation also resulted in positive benefits for residents based on their observed levels of engagement and positive affect.

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Author Biographies

Sienna Caspar, University of Lethbridge

Faculty of Health Sciences, PhD, CTRS

Assistant Professor, Therapeutic Recreation

Erin Davis, University of Lethbridge

graduate student in faculty of Health Sciences, LPN

Devan Mark Joseph McNeill, University of Lethbridge

instructor in Health Sciences, therapeutic recreation, MA

Peter Kellett, University of Lethbridge

assistant professor in Health Sciences, nursing program, PhD, RN

Published

2019-05-20

Issue

Section

Research Papers