Older Care Home Residents' Views of Intergenerational Practice

Abstract

Internationally, there is growing interest in strengthening intergenerational connectivity through intergenerational practices. Intergenerational practice has mainly focused on independent older people. This small UK qualitative study explored 16 care home residents' views of connections they have and would like with younger generations. Findings revealed that organized intergenerational practice needs to be guided, time-limited, and purposeful, drawing on a mutual exchange of experiences, knowledge, and lifelong skills, and opening opportunities for acquiring new skills. Intergenerational practice in care homes needs to consider the type of intergenerational interaction residents want and support needed for participation.

Keywords:

• intergenerational connectivity
• intergenerational practice
• social inclusion
• care home residents' views
• qualitative study

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank all of the people who participated in the study. Their contribution to group and individual discussions enabled us to gain insight into intergenerational practices in care homes. We also acknowledge the support of staff for coordinating the discussions.