Intergenerational service learning with elders: multidisciplinary activities and outcomes

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Psychology
• Occupational Therapy
• Health Promotion
• Physical Education
• Speech Pathology
• Therapeutic Recreation

Background:

• A 3-year, multidisciplinary, intergenerational service-learning project was implemented.
• The project was funded by the Foundation for Long-Term Care Service Learning grant.
• It involved collaboration between academic courses and clinical interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the activities and outcomes of an intergenerational service-learning project.
• To assess the satisfaction and perceived value of the program for students and elders.
• To highlight the benefits of linking multiple generations through service-learning.

Main Methods:

• Integrated service-learning activities into curricula across four academic departments and one interdisciplinary clinical intervention.
• Activities ranged from semester-long group sessions to several hours of one-on-one contact.
• Eight faculty, 225 students, 148 elders, and 12 community organizations participated.

Main Results:

• A total of 357 older adults participated in the planned and implemented activities.
• Students and elders reported high satisfaction with the intergenerational activities.
• Both students and elders found the activities valuable and educational.

Conclusions:

• Intergenerational service-learning projects can foster positive relationships and mutual learning between students and older adults.
• The program demonstrated success in engaging diverse academic disciplines and community partners.
• Service-learning provides a valuable platform for personal growth and skill development for all participants.