Grandfriends, an Intergenerational Program for Nursing-Home Residents and Preschoolers: A Randomized Trial

Abstract

Intergenerational programs may improve meaningful engagement for people with dementia and for attitudes toward older people in youth. Grandfriends, a 12-week program increased passive engagement and enjoyment among nursing home residents when interacting with preschoolers (n = 21) in comparison to usual activities. Grandfriends participants (n = 20) did not show changes on quality of life, agitation, or sense of community in comparison to residents (n = 20) randomized to usual care. Suggestions for future programs are given.

KEYWORDS:

• dementia
• engagement
• intergenerational
• nursing home
• preschoolers

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Thanks to the residents, children and their families, and the staff of RSL LifeCare and Little Diggers Kindergarten, particularly Shannon Sinclair and Jessica Watton.