Participation in intergenerational Service-Learning benefits older adults: A brief report

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Community Psychology
• Service-Learning Research

Background:

• Limited research exists on the benefits of intergenerational service-learning for older adults.
• Existing studies primarily focus on college student outcomes.
• The need for programs fostering intergenerational understanding and communication is growing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of the "Working Together: Intergenerational Student/Senior Exchange" program on older adult participants.
• To evaluate changes in generativity among older adults involved in the program.
• To gauge participant satisfaction and willingness to recommend the program.

Main Methods:

• Older adults from an assisted living community participated in meetings with college students.
• The program involved up to six sessions focused on discussion and relationship building.
• Pre- and post-program assessments were used to measure changes in participants.

Main Results:

• Significant increases in generativity were observed in older adult participants from pre- to post-program assessments.
• A high percentage of participants expressed a desire to participate in the program again.
• Many participants indicated a willingness to refer other older adults to the program.

Conclusions:

• Brief intergenerational service-learning programs can positively impact older adults by enhancing generativity.
• The "Working Together" program demonstrates success in promoting intergenerational connection and understanding.
• Further research should explore long-term effects and broader applications of such programs.