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Analysis of an intergenerational service-learning experience based on physical exercise in a community setting: a
Beatriz Alonso-Cortés Fradejas1, Raquel Lafuente-Ureta2, Sandra Calvo3,4
1Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of León (Ponferrada Campus), Ponferrada, Spain.
Frontiers in Public Health
|February 10, 2025
Summary
This intergenerational cane-walking program improved older adults' health and well-being while offering valuable experience to physiotherapy students. The study highlights universities' role in promoting community health through service-learning initiatives.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Public Health
- Physiotherapy Education
Background:
- Universities are crucial in promoting student health and fostering intergenerational connections.
- Service-learning projects can address societal issues like ageism and promote sustainable health practices.
- Intergenerational programs offer mutual benefits for participants of all ages.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of an intergenerational cane-walking program on older adults and physiotherapy students.
- To evaluate the program's effectiveness in promoting health and fostering intergenerational relationships.
- To explore student learning and older adult experiences within a community-based service-learning context.
Main Methods:
- A concurrent, nested mixed-methods design was employed for the intervention.
- Data collected through adherence monitoring, the Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire (BREQ-3), interviews, and feedback questionnaires.
- The program involved intergenerational group walks supervised by faculty and fellows during the 2022-2023 academic year.
Main Results:
- Older adults showed satisfactory adherence (72%) to the intervention, with 100% reporting improved health and well-being.
- High ratings for fostering intergenerational relationships were reported by both older adults (9.50 ± 0.6) and students.
- Students reported significant skill development, with fellows (100%) and students (74.1%-88.6%) rating it positively.
Conclusions:
- The cane-walking program positively impacted older adults' well-being and provided valuable experiential learning for physiotherapy students.
- Service-learning initiatives are effective in promoting sustainable health practices and strengthening community-university partnerships.
- Universities can play a vital role in addressing ageism and enhancing community health through such programs.
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