Intergenerational service learning: to promote active aging, and occupational therapy gerontology practice.
Americans are living longer, and the meaning of age has changed, particularly for Boomers and seniors. These demographic changes have economic and social ramifications with implications for health care, including rehabilitation services, and health science education. Service learning is an experiential learning pedagogy that integrates traditional higher education with structured active learning experiences. This article reports on one intergenerational service learning program spanning 3 years. It was designed to facilitate community dialogue on fall prevention and active aging, and to provide intergenerational educational community-based experiences in occupational therapy professional education. The program additionally sought to promote students' understanding of aging and issues related to aging in place, students' professional development and civic engagement, and to encourage students to consider pursuing a career in occupational therapy gerontology practice.
Horowitz
Beverly P
BP
Occupational Therapy Program, York College-CUNY, Jamaica, New York 11451, USA. bhorowitz@york.cuny.edu
Wong
Stephanie Dapice
SD
Dechello
Karen
K
D000058:Accidental Falls / Q000517:prevention & control; D000368:Aged / Q000523:psychology; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D001294:Attitude to Health; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003479:Curriculum; D005853:Geriatrics / Q000193:education*; D006266:Health Education / Q000458:organization & administration; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006299:Health Services for the Aged / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D016901:Intergenerational Relations; D009518:New York; D009788:Occupational Therapy / Q000193:education*; D018794:Problem-Based Learning; D016730:Program Development; D015397:Program Evaluation; D013336:Students, Health Occupations / Q000523:psychology; D014495:Universities / Q000458:organization & administration*; D055815:Young Adult