Potentials of Survivors, Intergenerational Dialogue, Active Ageing and Social Change

Abstract

Problem statementIntergenerational dialogue is important for personality development in younger and older people, intergenerational solidarity, national and cultural identity, and social change. However, generations differ in approaches to society and history. Research QuestionsCan intergenerational dialogues contribute to more effective use of older people's potentials of generativity in post-soviet societies? Do victims of war, younger generations, and society benefit from respective interventions? Purpose of studyAnalysis of (1) predictors of generativity in older people (including differences between Belarus, Russia, and Ukraine), (2) impact of intergenerational dialogue on generativity development, life satisfaction, and perceived meaning of life in older people, (3) impact of intergenerational dialogue on generativity development and perceived old age potentials in younger people. Research MethodsAdaption of psychometric scales for assessment in Belarus, Russia, and Ukraine, cross-sectional multivariate analysis of relationships between socio-demographic variables and generativity in 404 older people (mean age 74.5 years), longitudinal analyses over a period of 2 years (4 points of measurement) in 287 older people (mean age 76.3 years) and 165 younger people (mean age 18.8 years). FindingsGenerativity scores were highest in Ukraine and lowest in Russia. Socio-demographic variables and type of trauma explained for additional variance in generativity. Longitudinal analyses showed significant increases in generativity, satisfaction with relationships (lonely dissatisfaction), attitudes toward own ageing, agitation, self-acceptance, meaningfulness, and purpose in life in older people. Further results show increases in perceptions of old age potentials and generativity in younger people. ConclusionsFindings suggest that even in rapidly changing societies there is no insurmountable gap between generations. Encouraging self-initiated informal exchange on self-chosen historical and societal topics in the context of local intergenerational initiatives is a promising measure to support development and use of potentials of generativity in older people in the interest of the old, the young, and the whole society.