Bridging the generation gap: Intergenerational service-learning benefits young and old

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Social Psychology

Background:

• Intergenerational service-learning is prevalent in aging studies, with documented benefits for students.
• Fewer studies have explored the positive impacts on older adult participants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and implement a brief intergenerational program.
• To assess the program's effectiveness in reducing age-related stereotypes and enhancing generativity in older adults.

Main Methods:

• Young adults from an aging course and older adults from an assisted-living facility engaged in three structured discussion sessions.
• Utilized the Fraboni Scale of Ageism and the Loyola Generativity Scale for assessment.

Main Results:

• Significant reduction in ageism observed in young adult participants.
• Descriptive data indicated an increase in generativity among older adult participants.
• Qualitative feedback revealed increased mutual appreciation and identification of commonalities.

Conclusions:

• Intergenerational service-learning, even in brief formats, shows potential for positive outcomes for both young and older adults.
• The program effectively reduced ageism and suggested enhanced generativity, highlighting its value in bridging generational divides.