Intergenerational connections to improve social well-being of older adults with ADRD: A research protocol. (17th December 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Xu, Ling; Fields, Noelle; Daniel, Kathryn; Troutman, Brooke; Cipher, Daisha
• Is Part Of: Innovation in aging. Volume 5(2021)Supplement 1
• Page Start: 1009
• Page End: 1010
• Publication Date: 2021-12-17
• Subjects: Aging -- Periodicals; Gerontology -- Periodicals; 612.67
• DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igab046.3619
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2399-5300

Abstract

Abstract: There is growing concern about social isolation, loneliness, and diminished emotional well-being among persons with ADRD who live in the community. Research suggests that reminiscence strategies, especially with the production of a digital story book, combined with an intergenerational approach may yield significant benefits for older adults. Reminiscence approaches are typically implemented by trained professionals. However, the use of trained volunteers is of growing interest due to the costs associated with reminiscence programs. This research protocol describes the development and testing of an intergenerational, telephone-based reminiscence program offered by trained, young adult volunteers that includes the use of digital storytelling (DST). Specifically, the study addresses three aims: 1) Quantitatively test the effectiveness in improving social and emotional well-being of older adults with ADRD; 2) Quantitatively test attitudes towards aging and knowledge and awareness of ADRD disease among the young adults; and (3) Qualitatively evaluate the usefulness of this intervention from perspectives of the dyads. A randomized control trial is used to assess the effects of the intervention using an explanatory sequential mixed methods design. The older and younger participants (n = 92 dyads) are randomly assigned to intervention (reminiscence) or sham (social visit) group, and then randomly matched. Data are collected at baseline, mid-intervention, post- intervention, 3 months-post intervention and through qualitative interviews (selected dyads). The proposed evaluation activities will allow us to determine the applicability of intergenerational reminiscence with DST as an effective intervention for supporting the social and emotional needs of persons with ADRD.