Intergenerational Groups: Rediscovering our Legacy

Authors

  • Scott P. Anstadt Florida Gulf Coast University
  • Deb Byster Walden University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18060/177

Keywords:

Intergenerational, Community Outreach, Group, Older Adult, International Students, Multicultural

Abstract

Intergenerational groups are a community-based group concept designed to engage and mobilize often untapped resources of older adults in effective interaction with younger populations. These groups support an atmosphere of synergistic interaction. Members of each generation share reflections on interpersonal strengths and capacities and rediscover emotional and spiritual anchors and bonding. Illustrated here is Community Connections (CC), developed using the phase driven participatory culture-specific intervention model (PCSIM; Nastasi, Moore & Varjas, 2004) that included self selected local older adults, caregivers, and multicultural exchange students. The program was structured to offer mutual opportunities for activities built around exchanging cultural and life experiences. The goals were: 1) to reduce social isolation due to age, culture, or disability 2) for international students to practice English and learn about local cultural traditions, and 3) to build intergenerational ‘extended family’ relationships.

Author Biographies

Scott P. Anstadt, Florida Gulf Coast University

Ph.D., DCSW, LCSW Instructor, Division of Social Work, College of Professional Studies, Florida Gulf Coast University, Fort Myers, Fl 33907

Deb Byster, Walden University

Master Candidate M.S. MHC Candidate

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Published

2009-03-19

Issue

Section

Articles