A meta-analytic review of the effects of intergenerational programs for youth and older adults

Abstract

ABSTRACT This is the first meta-analysis to examine the outcomes of nonfamilial, intergenerational programs (IGP) on youth and older adults. Relevant studies were identified by screening the abstracts from five systematic reviews on the impact of intergenerational programs on psychosocial outcomes. After all studies were screened 23 independent studies were included in the meta-analysis. An effect size, d, was calculated for the change in youth attitudes toward older adults, as well as older adults’ change in generativity, quality of life, depressive symptoms, and physical health. Results suggested that IGP have a small, but significant association with improved youth attitudes toward older adults (d = 0.42). For older adults IGP were associated with a small, significant, reduction in depressive symptoms (d = > −0.30) and increased generativity (d = 0.25), quality of life (d = 0.48) and physical health (d = 0.10). Nonsignificant heterogeneity precluded the use of moderator variables to explain variation among the studies. With a better understanding of the effectiveness of IGP, researchers can more effectively develop IGP and assess their outcomes.