Intergenerational caring in professional and family life.
My physician husband and I, as a gerontologic nurse, are committed to intergenerational home visiting because it contributes in a positive way to the social, emotional, and physical well-being of elderly persons that are care for in the home. Informal feedback from the patients has been encouraging, with many requests for return visits. Our children like the party atmosphere, cuddling, and inclusion in their father's work. I enjoy socializing and what this experience teaches the children (e.g., empathy and a glimpse of their mother in her professional role). We have discovered that opportunities for intergenerational visiting are plentiful. The children also make visits to their father's office, and that usually includes lots of interaction with elderly patients in the waiting room. On Saturday morning, which is my time off, my husband will often take the children on his supportive care visits to his "in-hospital" patients. After discharge from the hospital, one woman recalled the positive effects these visits had on her recovery. These visits appear to have an energizing effect not only on patients, but also on the nurses. Perhaps the exuberance of a child instills vitality in others. Simply from observing the reactions of patients during intergenerational home visits, there is no doubt that juniors and seniors benefit from one another's company. The middle generation also finds more satisfaction and integration as they blend family and professional life.
MacPhail
J
J
D000368:Aged; D005190:Family; D005260:Female; D006699:Home Care Services / Q000458:organization & administration; D006801:Humans; D016901:Intergenerational Relations; D010348:Patient Care Team / Q000458:organization & administration*