Share your experience and I'll lend you my ear: older adult outcomes of an intergenerational service-learning experience.
Intergenerational service learning is frequently used in gerontology courses. However, research usually focuses on the experience of the younger (e.g., children, youth, adolescents, students) rather than older participants, or older adults who are in poor health. Using a focus group methodology, this study explored the experience of active older volunteers who participated in an intergenerational service-learning project with college students. Results indicated older adults positively experienced the project and found the relationships with their partners meaningful. They appreciated students listening to their life stories and documenting them through memoirs. The study shows that active older adults can benefit from an intergenerational service-learning experience.
Department of Psychology, Xavier University, 3800 Victory Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45207-6511, USA. zucchero@xavier.edu
Reneé A
RA
Zucchero
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000375:Aging; D003142:Communication; D004521:Educational Measurement; D004522:Educational Status; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D005853:Geriatrics / Q000193:education*; D006801:Humans; D016901:Intergenerational Relations; D007858:Learning; D008297:Male; D008611:Mentors; D036301:Qualitative Research; D013336:Students, Health Occupations / Q000523:psychology*; D013663:Teaching; D014495:Universities; D055815:Young Adult