LONELINESS AND INTERGENERATIONAL ACTIVITIES BETWEEN UNIVERSITY STUDENTS AND OLDER ADULTS. (16th November 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Aguilera-Hermida, A; Anderson, E; Negron, V; Sánchez-Alcalde, R; Hackett, E; Cunliffe, S; Talamo, E
• Is Part Of: Innovation in aging. Volume 2(2018)Supplement 1
• Page Start: 966
• Page End: 966
• Publication Date: 2018-11-16
• Subjects: Aging -- Periodicals; Gerontology -- Periodicals; 612.67
• DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igy031.3580
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2399-5300

Abstract

Abstract: Older adults and college students are at high risk for experiencing loneliness. Seniors' social interactions in long-term facilities tend to lack intimacy compared to relationships with family. Students lose the social connectedness and security that come from one's home community. Intergenerational programs foster cross-generational understanding and promote social connectedness. Most intergenerational projects are part of a college class, but once the program is finished, there is no continuity. This study explored what type of intergenerational activities are more meaningful for older and young adults. There were quantitative and qualitative components. Participants included 32 college students and 21 residents of a retirement community, with a final number of 92 surveys completed after the interactions. The variables analyzed were demographics, loneliness, enjoyment, level of conversation, and type of activity. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with five residents and ten students who participated in four or more activities over five weeks. A significant positive correlation was found between enjoyment and conversation (r = .59, p < .001) which was supported by the narrative of participants. The activities that both participants enjoyed were those with higher levels of conversation. The first being committees –students and residents developed activities to help other residents- followed by meals, one on one activities, and pushing wheelchairs. Intergenerational activities are a coping strategy for new students. For elders, it connects them with the outside world. Facilities for older adults can customize the activities that they do with young adult volunteers, giving preference to those, which involve meaningful conversations.