RESEARCH & WELLBEING

Intergenerational Wellbeing

Bringing generations together through shared experiences, connection and learning.

Intergenerational experiences bring children, older adults and people of different generations together through shared activities, learning and connection. Research suggests that these experiences can support social, emotional and educational wellbeing, while helping to build positive relationships and understanding between generations.

Explore research into the benefits of bringing generations together, including intergenerational programs in schools, early childhood settings and the wider community.

Research Artciles
Intergenerational Programs in Schools: Prevalence and Perceptions of Impact
Intergenerational Programs in Schools: Prevalence and Perceptions of Impact

This study examined the prevalence, types, and perceived impact of intergenerational programs in schools. Programs involving senior volunteers assisting children, or children participating in activities with older people were considered. Of the schools reached, 47% reported intergenerational programming. Thirty-three schools in the Tel-Aviv region participated in the study. Data were collected from 85 seniors, 26 teachers, and 20 coordinators. Assessments included program characteristics, program preparation, and perceived benefits and difficulties. Both programs were reported to have beneficial effects for seniors and to benefit children in the academic, social, and emotional domains.

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Intergenerational programs: What can school-age children and older people expect from them? A systematic review
Intergenerational programs: What can school-age children and older people expect from them? A systematic review

Intergenerational programs (IGPs) aim to facilitate cooperation and exchange among different age groups. While most studies highlight the benefits for each generation, the programs and study designs vary widely. We conducted a systematic review of the scientific literature between 2005 and 2015 to: (1) characterize and define the IGPs studied and (2) identify the benefits for school-age children and older people aged 60 years or over. 

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Benefits of an intergenerational program in the early years Intergenerational program
Benefits of an intergenerational program in the early years Intergenerational program

Intergenerational programs unite the young and old in shared activities to foster positive relationships across generations, reducing loneliness caused by living in residential care and improving children’s attitudes toward the elderly

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