Senior-to-senior mediation service project

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Conflict Resolution Studies
• Social Work

Background:

• Elderly individuals frequently encounter complex conflicts related to housing, consumer issues, healthcare access, and family dynamics.
• Mediation is a crucial intervention for resolving disputes within the senior population.
• The need for accessible and senior-focused conflict resolution services is growing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the efficacy of utilizing senior volunteers as mediators for their peers.
• To assess the impact of conflict management training on the competence of senior volunteers.
• To highlight the potential of intergenerational support in resolving elder-related disputes.

Main Methods:

• A program was developed to train senior citizens in conflict management techniques.
• Trained seniors were deployed as volunteer mediators to assist other elderly individuals with various disputes.
• Participant feedback and conflict resolution outcomes were evaluated.

Main Results:

• The program demonstrated significant potential in using seniors as effective volunteer mediators for their peers.
• Training in conflict management skills demonstrably enhanced the competence of senior volunteers in addressing conflicts.
• Seniors reported increased confidence and skill in managing their own disputes after the training.

Conclusions:

• Employing senior volunteers as mediators is a viable and effective strategy for addressing conflicts among the elderly.
• Conflict management training empowers seniors, not only to mediate for others but also to resolve their personal conflicts more effectively.
• This model offers a scalable and sustainable approach to enhancing support services for aging populations.