Older adults' perspective of intergenerational programme at senior day care centre in Singapore: A descriptive qualitative study

Abstract

Population ageing resulting from declining fertility and extended life expectancy has been occurring rapidly throughout the world. Older adults are faced with multiple physical, psychological and social changes that challenge their sense of self and capacity for healthy ageing. Intergenerational programmes (IGP) in communities have been developed to address a variety of social issues brought about by the population ageing. These programmes focus on promoting intergenerational social contact, supporting educational programmes and facilitating intellectual and/or physical activities in the older adults. This study intended to explore the perception of community‐dwelling older adults towards an IGP in a senior day care centre in Singapore. Purposive sampling was adopted to recruit 15 participants for the study. Individual face‐to‐face interviews were conducted until data saturation was achieved. Interviews were audio‐taped and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was carried out. Four themes and 13 sub‐themes emerged: (1) IGP enhances memory and strength; (2) social interaction between older adults and younger generation; (3) emotional responses to IGP; and (4) attitudes and perception towards the younger generation. The current study illustrated the dynamic social interaction between older adults and the younger generation, as well as the perceived benefits of the IGP. The relationship formed between the two generations entailed companionship, mutual care, trust and affection. Participation in the IGP provided the older adults an opportunity for active engagement in society and development. Continuous effort must be put in to ensure continuity of integration and empowerment of older adults, including the removal of obstacles and barriers that exclude or discriminate against them. The study findings will help facilitate the customisation of IGP to meet the needs of the older adults. With a well‐planned and structured IGP, significant physical, emotional and psychosocial outcomes could benefit the older adults and the younger generation.

Barriers and facilitators to older adult participation in intergenerational physical activity program: a systematic review

“…Other personal-level facilitators were experienced when older people engaged in intergenerational PA, so various PA advantages regarding mental and physical wellness have been noted, such as increased self-confidence, accomplishment, well-being, and improved appearance [ 48 ], cognition [ 49 ], and strength [ 50 ]. Perceiving improvements in psychological well-being through enhanced emotions is correlated with the motivation for elderly individuals to engage in physical activities [ 51 ].…”

Feasibility, satisfaction, acceptability and safety of telehealth for First Nations and culturally and linguistically diverse people: a scoping review

“…Older people from CALD background may not own a computer or if they do, their literacy may be low, and they depend on their adult children for technical support in completing appointment forms online. Often CALD patients are also isolated from family since lack of communication in English widens the intergenerational gap as their offspring adopt mainstream values (32,33).…”

Association of intergenerational relationships with cognitive impairment among Chinese adults 80 years of age or older: prospective cohort study

“…At the same time, older adults usually share some wealth of skills, experiences and valuable advice in this process. Then they experience appreciation and gratitude from younger generations for their wisdom, sense of importance and value, which will enhance their positive emotions and satisfaction [ 62 – 64 ]. In addition, doing housework or childcare were cognitively complex tasks that needed attention, alertness and consideration.…”