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Intergenerational caring in professional and family life
Geriatric Nursing (New York, N.Y.)
|March 1, 1993
Summary
Intergenerational home visits positively impact the social, emotional, and physical well-being of elderly patients. Both children and seniors benefit from these interactions, fostering empathy and connection across age groups.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Pediatrics
- Nursing
Background:
- Intergenerational home visiting programs are explored as a method to enhance well-being.
- The study is conducted by a gerontologic nurse and her physician husband.
Observation:
- Patients provide informal feedback, requesting return visits.
- Children enjoy the social interaction and feel included in their father's work.
- Children visit their father's office, interacting with elderly patients.
- Supportive care visits to hospitalized patients include children, with positive patient recall post-discharge.
Findings:
- Intergenerational visits positively influence the social, emotional, and physical well-being of elderly individuals.
- Children gain social skills such as empathy and understanding of professional roles.
- Patients report positive effects on recovery and experience an energizing impact.
- Nurses also experience an energizing effect, potentially due to the exuberance of children.
- Mutual benefits are observed for both juniors (children) and seniors (elderly patients).
- The middle generation experiences increased satisfaction and integration by blending family and professional life.
Implications:
- Intergenerational programs offer a valuable approach to holistic elder care.
- These programs foster cross-generational understanding and reduce social isolation.
- Integrating family and professional life through such initiatives can enhance overall life satisfaction.