Abstract
This chapter explores several “pathways” through which intergenerational programs and practices contribute to health and well-being across the lifespan. It begins with a review of some foundational concepts that lend support, as well as help set the parameters, for intergenerational interventions that promote physical activity, healthy eating practices, and other lifestyle behaviors that have a bearing on physical and mental health. Another theme explores program impact on how older adults perceive themselves, particularly with regard to whether they adopt positive or negative cognitive scripts associated with aging. This discussion is informed by social psychological research into the relationship between self-perception and health. Intergenerational program examples are presented which aim to reduce the actual and perceived loneliness that many older adults experience, and provide them with meaningful social roles and a greater sense of purpose in life. Particular emphasis is placed on intergenerational models designed to provide social, emotional, and instrumental support for individuals who live in vulnerable situations and with unmet needs for assistance.
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Notes
- 1.
Interventions such as the LinkAge Bristol initiative fit into a larger conversation taking place in municipalities on multiple continents about ways to respond to the issues being discussed here (e.g., the dangers of loneliness, loss of purpose, and the need to rethink/refit community infrastructure and services). One line of intervention receiving much attention in recent years is the “age-friendly” cities and communities movement (Fitzgerald & Caro, 2014) which is described in detail in Chap. 6 (“Intergenerational Strategies for Sustaining Strong Communities”).
- 2.
Given the complexity of intergenerational relationships and the difficulty in parsing causes/effects, we advocate for the use of mixed methods approaches in intergenerational research aiming to evaluate program impact on multi-dimensional variables such as “sense of purpose” and “quality of life.” Creative approaches like Photovoice, video analysis, and long-term participant observation can also provide deeper engagement than conventional research models.
- 3.
Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese form of self-defense. Recent research indicates that those who practice this system of slow and controlled movements are able to improve or maintain strength, flexibility, and balance. Practitioners also report enhanced relaxation and a sense of well-being (Jahnke, Larkey, Rogers, Etnier, & Lin, 2010).
- 4.
More information on research conducted on OASIS programs can be obtained from the organization’s website: http://www.oasisnet.org/AboutUs/Research.aspx.
- 5.
The FRIDGE curriculum is available online at: http://extension.psu.edu/youth/intergenerational/program-areas/nutrition-health/fridge.
- 6.
Food deserts are areas that lack access to affordable fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low fat milk, and other foods that make up the full range of a healthy diet. This is largely due to a lack of grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and healthy food providers.
- 7.
Intergenerational shared sites are settings in which “multiple generations receive ongoing services and/or programming at the same site, and generally interact through planned and/or informal intergenerational activities” (AARP, 1988, p. v). This includes purpose-built age-integrated centers and other community settings designed for multiple generations to meet, interact, and engage in joint activities.
- 8.
Technically, this is more of an ‘immersion’ model than a ‘shared site’ model insofar as the students were relocated rather than co-located with the older adults as is the case with the typical shared site program.
- 9.
- 10.
Kansha is a Japanese word meaning deep respect and gratitude.
- 11.
The GAPA website can be accessed at: http://www.gapa.org.za.
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Kaplan, M., Sanchez, M., Hoffman, J. (2017). Intergenerational Approaches for Sustaining Individual Health and Well-being. In: Intergenerational Pathways to a Sustainable Society. Perspectives on Sustainable Growth. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-47019-1_3
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