The Development of an Intergenerational Service-Learning Program at a Nursing Home

Intergenerational programming: attitudes of children and perceptions of older adult participants

“…However, the attitudes reported in this study like those of Chapman and Neal (1990) and Newman et al, (1985) were positive despite the elevated status ofthe older adults as teaching aides.…”

“…While the literature suggests that it is difficult for children to maintain stereotypic and negative attitudes toward the elderly when they have contact with elderly individuals (Seefeldt, 1987a;Knox et al, 1986;Newman et al, 1985; Rosencranz …”

“…Successful intergenerational programs provide opportunities for participants to plan and implement activities (Fox & Giles, 1993;Aday et al , 1991 ;Hill, 1987;Newman et al , 1985). Contact between participants is intimate in nature as opposed to casual (Aday et al, 1991;Chapman & Neal, 1990;Keller, 1990;Seefeldt, 1987a), and activities have integrity and function for both generations through careful planning (Newman & Riess, 1992;Haber & Short-DeGraf, 1990;Keller, 1990;Henkin & Sweeney, 1989;Seefeldt, 1989;Ventura-Merkel et al, 1989;Seefeldt, 1987a).…”

“…Younger and older participants demonstrate positive attitudes more frequently in those programs where interage relationships are based upon equal status between participants (Fox & Giles, 1993;Seefeldt, 1987a;Seefeldt, 1987b;Roberto & Scott, 1986;Caspi, 1984). Finally, successful intergenerational programs provide contact between the generations that is pleasant and rewarding (Newman & Reiss, 1992;Haber & Short-DeGraf, 1990;Keller, 1990;Ventura-Merkel et al, 1989;Hill, 1987;North York Board of Education, 1987;Seefeldt, 1987a;Newman et al, 1985;Streitfield, 1976). Successful intergenerational programs, "should be spontaneous, consistent contact that is mutually satisfying and beneficial to the old and young alike" (Aday et al, 1991).…”

“…The literature would seem to indicate that intergenerational programming is largely a positive experience for the younger generation (Newman & Riess, 1992;Chapman & Neal, 1990;Haber & Short-deGraf, 1990;Keller, 1990;Seefeldt, 1989;Allred & Dobson, 1987;North York Board of Education, 1987;Seefeldt, 1987a;Seefeldt, 1987b;Cherry et al, 1985;Newman et al, 1985;Pratt, 1984;Sheehan, 1978). From a developmental perspective, children can only recognize their full potential when they come to terms with their own aging and develop healthy relationships and attitudes towards older adults Jantz et al, 1977;Seefeldt et al, 1977b;Kratochwill & Goldman, 1973;Rosencranz & McNevin, 1969;Hickey et al, 1968).…”