Enhancing elderly health and social interaction via the Elderly-Toddlers Intergenerational Programme

Objectives Recently, social isolation has been reported to be a critical problem among Japanese elderly persons. However, few studies have compared social interaction in the past and the present or investigated its predictive factors. This study aimed to clarify the transitional changes in social interaction over 20 years and explore the factors related to social interaction focusing on the use of community resources.Methods The participants were community-dwelling elderly persons aged 65 years and over. A survey was conducted 8 times from 1994 to 2014 in the suburban area of Tobishima, Japan. The Index of Social Interaction Scale was used and each subscale and the total score were calculated. Subsequently, the 2014 scores were compared with the 1994 scores using the Wilcoxon rank sum test. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to clarify the factors related to social interaction, focusing on the association between the use of community resources (local elderly management center, health care center, health promotion facility, library) in 2011 and social interaction 3 years later. Age, gender, disease, and mobility were also entered into the model as control variables.Results Comparing social interaction in 1994 and 2014, total scores were found to have significantly increased in all age groups. Independence scores significantly increased in the overall group and in females aged 75-84. Curiosity scores also increased in both males and females. These results show that social interaction has increased over 2 decades. In addition, the use of local elderly management and health care centers, and health promotion facilities was associated with total social interaction scores 3 years later.Conclusion The current study clarified changes in social interaction, both comprehensively and for each of its aspects, among community-dwelling elderly adults. Increasing social isolation has been reported in recent years; however, the current study showed that social interaction, including social curiosity and independence, has increased over 20 years. The effect of preventive intervention in local elderly management centers, health care centers, and health promotion facilities may be one of the causes for this increase.

The aging population has brought increased attention to the urgent need to address social isolation and health risks among the elderly. While previous research has established the positive effects of parks in promoting social interaction and health among older adults, further investigation is required to understand the complex relationships between perceptions of the park environment, social interaction, and elderly health. In this study, structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to examine these relationships, using nine parks in Wuhan as a case study. The findings indicate that social interaction serves as a complete mediator between perceptions of the park environment and elderly health (path coefficients: park environment on social interaction = 0.45, social interaction on health = 0.46, and indirect effect = 0.182). Furthermore, the results of the multi-group SEM analysis revealed that the mediating effect was moderated by the pattern of social interaction (the difference test: the friend companionship group vs. the family companionship group (Z = 1.965 > 1.96)). Notably, family companionship had a significantly stronger positive impact on the health of older adults compared to friend companionship. These findings contribute to our understanding of the mechanisms through which urban parks support the physical and mental well-being of the elderly and provide a scientific foundation for optimizing urban park environments.

Aging has an impact on all aspects of spiritual biopsychosocial and quality of life. Susenas data (2020) shows that 9.80% of the elderly live alone. The Central Statistics Agency data (2020) shows that almost half of the elderly experience health complaints, both physical and psychological (48.14%)). The purpose of this study was to identify the relationship between communication skills and social interaction in the elderly during the COVID-19 pandemic in Pemalang Regency. This type of research uses descriptive correlation. The sample is 44 elderly people. The communication ability questionnaire instrument has r results 0.489 - 0.910 with r table = 0.423 and the social interaction questionnaire has r values ​0.447 - 0.857 with r table = 0.423. Data analysis using chi square with p-value 0.05. The research was conducted in June – July 2021 in the working area of ​​the Bantarbolang Public Health Center at Pemalang Regency. The results showed that 84.1% of respondents were able to communicate well, 79.5% of respondents has good social interaction, and there was a correlation between communication skills and social interaction in the elderly in Pemalang Regency (p value = 0.0001; α = 0.05). Communication skills are one of the supports in social interaction for the elderly. Public health center can develop health service programs and improve the quality of life of the elderly in integrated coaching posts.

Aging has an impact on all aspects of spiritual biopsychosocial and quality of life. Susenas data (2020) shows that 9.80% of the elderly live alone. The Central Statistics Agency data (2020) shows that almost half of the elderly experience health complaints, both physical and psychological (48.14%)). The purpose of this study was to identify the relationship between communication skills and social interaction in the elderly during the COVID-19 pandemic in Pemalang Regency. This type of research uses descriptive correlation. The sample is 44 elderly people. The communication ability questionnaire instrument has r results 0.489 - 0.910 with r table = 0.423 and the social interaction questionnaire has r values ​0.447 - 0.857 with r table = 0.423. Data analysis using chi square with p-value 0.05. The research was conducted in June – July 2021 in the working area of ​​the Bantarbolang Public Health Center at Pemalang Regency. The results showed that 84.1% of respondents were able to communicate well, 79.5% of respondents has good social interaction, and there was a correlation between communication skills and social interaction in the elderly in Pemalang Regency (p value = 0.0001; α = 0.05). Communication skills are one of the supports in social interaction for the elderly. Public health center can develop health service programs and improve the quality of life of the elderly in integrated coaching posts.

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.

A tale of two generations: Case study of intergenerational living in residential aged care

This paper draws on theories of ageing, body image and disfigurement, to explore the potential for relationships between oral health, body image and social interactions between institutionalised elders. Social relationships are important at all stages of life. A positive body image increases confidence in social interactions, which contributes substantially to health, well-being and quality of life. Body image can be negatively impacted by oral conditions, particularly those that are appearance related and do not meet cultural ideals. Typically, the oral health of frail elders in long-term care facilities is poor, but to what extent poor oral health and dysfunction influence body image, and social behaviours is unclear. We conclude that there is the potential for poor oral health conditions to contribute negatively to the social well-being in this population, but suggest that it requires further investigation.

This research aims to study the problems and factors in organizing activities to promote holistic health in the elderly, Elderly Social Welfare Development Center, and to develop activities in the art of performing folk songs to promote holistic health in the elderly, Elderly Social Welfare Development Center. It is a study that aims to extract knowledge about the process of organizing activities for the elderly in order to develop a form of folk song performing arts activities to develop holistic health in the elderly as a research and development model Divided into 3 phases: Phase 1 synthesizes knowledge on organizing activities for the elderly, Phase 2 develops and evaluates traditional performing arts activities to develop holistic health in the elderly, and Phase 3 uses Folk performing arts activity format for holistic health development in the elderly. The research tool used was a structured interview form and satisfaction assessment form for organizing activities. All analysis results are presented as descriptive data and tables with explanations. The findings revealed Problems and factors in organizing activities to promote holistic health in the elderly at the Elderly Social Welfare Development Center. The researcher can summarize into two issues: 1) The current condition of organizing activities to promote the health of the elderly at the 12 Elderly Social Welfare Development Centers has three formats: ordinary elderly, particular types, and centers without elderly residents. In terms of operations for caring for and promoting the elderly, there will be an operation plan for the center that promotes the health of the elderly. There are four areas: physical, mental, and social interaction and intelligence. 2) Factors in organizing activities to promote holistic health in the elderly. The Center for the Development of Social Welfare for the Elderly found that opinions and needs for bringing in local wisdom heritage, in terms of performing arts, all four regions came to organize activities to promote the health of the elderly at all 12 Elderly Social Welfare Development Centers. There were two issues: 1) Perspectives and opinions. It was found that bringing both local performing arts and four regionally organized activities to promote the health of the elderly within the center. It is a good and exciting activity. Most elderly people enjoy fun activities, including singing and dancing. It is also a matter of Folk performing arts that can understand the emotions and feelings of the elderly very well. It also helps promote and stimulate the memory of the elderly. 2) The need to bring local wisdom and heritage. In terms of performing arts, all four regions came to organize activities to promote the health of the elderly at all 12 Elderly Social Welfare Development Centers. It was found that there was a need to organize activities to promote the health of the elderly using all Folk performing arts. The aim is to organize activities that can develop the physical, mental, social, and intellectual aspects. The results of the development of activities in the art of performing folk songs to promote holistic health in the elderly have two crucial points: 1) The uniqueness of the art of folk song performance that has an impact on society is that it reflects the culture of the community, build relationships among people in the community, have fun public relations media and self-development 2) The results of creating and developing an art activity format for performing folk songs to promote holistic health in the elderly. The researcher created and developed a folk song performance art activity model consisting of 6 elements: principles of the form, Objectives of the format, content, activities, promoting factors, and evaluation

Intergenerational programs (IGPs) are critical interventions for enhancing physical, psychological, social, and cognitive well-being by fostering social connectedness and reducing isolation among older adults. However, a gap in existing research is the limited understanding of the factors influencing the acceptability and feasibility of IGPs. Identifying these factors is essential for designing programs that better meet the needs of older adults. This study examines older adults’ perspectives on IGPs through semi-structured interviews with 24 participants (ages 65–104). Thematic analysis identified seven key factors that shape engagement: (1) Culture, (2) Knowledge and Experience Exchange, (3) Interest and Curiosity as Motivation, (4) Emotional Support, (5) Social Interaction, (6) Family and Community Support, and (7) Technology Integration. These factors influence how older and younger participants engage in IGPs, shaping their experiences through shared activities and reciprocal knowledge exchange. The findings emphasize the role of structured engagement in sustaining meaningful intergenerational interactions. While older adults show enthusiasm, younger participants often engage due to academic requirements, limiting intrinsic motivation. Differences in digital literacy create barriers to participation, particularly for older adults unfamiliar with technology. The study also found that varying expectations among older participants, limited institutional support, and the digital divide pose challenges to engagement. These insights enhance our understanding of intergenerational dynamics, guiding policymakers and program developers in designing interventions that promote healthy aging and strengthen intergenerational bonds.

Intergenerational programs (IGPs) are critical interventions for enhancing physical, psychological, social, and cognitive well-being by fostering social connectedness and reducing isolation among older adults. However, a gap in existing research is the limited understanding of the factors influencing the acceptability and feasibility of IGPs. Identifying these factors is essential for designing programs that better meet the needs of older adults. This study examines older adults’ perspectives on IGPs through semi-structured interviews with 24 participants (ages 65–104). Thematic analysis identified seven key factors that shape engagement: (1) Culture, (2) Knowledge and Experience Exchange, (3) Interest and Curiosity as Motivation, (4) Emotional Support, (5) Social Interaction, (6) Family and Community Support, and (7) Technology Integration. These factors influence how older and younger participants engage in IGPs, shaping their experiences through shared activities and reciprocal knowledge exchange. The findings emphasize the role of structured engagement in sustaining meaningful intergenerational interactions. While older adults show enthusiasm, younger participants often engage due to academic requirements, limiting intrinsic motivation. Differences in digital literacy create barriers to participation, particularly for older adults unfamiliar with technology. The study also found that varying expectations among older participants, limited institutional support, and the digital divide pose challenges to engagement. These insights enhance our understanding of intergenerational dynamics, guiding policymakers and program developers in designing interventions that promote healthy aging and strengthen intergenerational bonds.

BackgroundThe built environment quality of neighborhoods has a significant impact on the health of the elderly. Although there has been a wealth of studies on low-density Western cities, research on the impacts of built environment on elderly health in high-density Chinese cities is far from sufficient. The pathways by which the built environment affects elderly health remain to be observed, particularly whether such pathways vary for different ages and genders.MethodsBased on the data of the “Fourth Survey on the Living Conditions of the Elderly in China” in 2015, a sample survey of 3,360 older adults, aged 60 years and over, in Beijing was conducted. We first explored the built environment factors that affect elderly health with a multilevel regression model. We then adopted a multilevel structural equation model (MSEM) to reveal the mediating effect of health activities. Moreover, a stratified analysis was applied to explore the impact of age and gender heterogeneity on the relationship between built environment and elderly health.Results(1) Neighborhood-built environment measured within a 500 m buffer area had a higher correlation with elderly health when compared with other areas. (2) Physical activity and social interaction played a mediating role in the correlation between the built environment and elderly health. Even if the interference of residential self-selection was controlled within the subgroups, majority of the built environment elements had significant impacts on elderly health. (3) The impacts of built environment variables on elderly health vary among different age and gender groups. Population density mainly promoted elderly health through health activities in the middle-aged (aged 70–79) group and high-aged (aged 80+) group, and shorter distance to transit stations affects health by promoting the social interaction among high-aged males (aged 80+) group compared to with other groups, and high-quality built environment significantly promotes physical activity to alleviate loneliness only in elderly females.ConclusionTo effectively boost elderly health by improving the quality of the built environment, adequate considerations should also be given to the differentiated demands of adults of different age and gender groups, precise health behavior interventions should be provided, and the construction of personalized aging-friendly and livable spatial environments should be emphasized to realize healthy and active aging.

Physical activity programs targeted at only older adults or youth have minimal success. The researchers explore intergenerational programming as an approach to promoting physical activity using community-based participatory research. Study goals are to design and assess the feasibility and efficacy for increasing physical activity and social interaction among older adults and youth through an intergenerational physical activity program. Seven older adults and seven youth completed an eight-week tai chi program. There was interaction between the generations and increased physical activity. Further research is warranted to determine the optimal approach to enhance interaction and physical activity between two generations.

Most intergenerational programs combine young children with elderly persons, but the benefits of intergenerational programming can be extended to include people of other ages. This article describes an innovative model program at the Colmery-O'Neil Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Topeka, KS, incorporating patients who are middle-aged with those who are elderly in multidisciplinary, therapeutic applications designed to facilitate treatment objectives for all. This article articulates the conceptual framework for integrating these patients, who range in age from 35 to 100 plus years, into horticultural and recreational therapy interventions. Therapeutic goals for all patients include sensory stimulation; social interaction and integration; feelings that they are essential members of a group; engagements with others in relationships; opportunities for self-esteem and self-worth; and positive, enjoyable experiences.

Healthcare awareness is being increased due to an advancement made on technology and medical science field for providing consciousness about nutrition, environmental, and personal hygiene. Aging population increase life expectancy globally and cause danger to socio-economic structure in terms of cost related to wellbeing and healthcare of elderly people. Migration of people to cities and urban areas affects healthcare services in great extent. Nowadays, cities present in the world invest heavily in digital transformation for providing healthy environment to elderly people. Healthcare application is merely based on activity, social interactions, and physiological signs of elderly people for the recommendation system. Measurement of physiological signs may include wearable or ambient sensors to gather information related to elderly people health conditions. Better recommendations can be provided to elderly people merely based on three terms. First, recommendations through personal details of elderly people collected in day-to-day life. Second, measure of health conditions such as pulse rate, blood pressure and heart beat. Third, social interactions based stress of elderly people in social media is determined by collecting elderly people posts and updates. Depending on the unruffled information recommendations are generated.

Date Presented 3/30/2017 The purpose of this poster presentation is to determine if intergenerational programs in nursing homes have an effect on older adults through the interactions with preschool and school-age children. Primary Author and Speaker: Gabrielle Mazza Contributing Authors: Paula Kramer, Colleen Maher