GETTING AHEAD: EXAMINING THE INTERGENERATIONAL BENEFITS OF PARTICIPATING IN A COLLEGE SERVICE-LEARNING PROGRAM

Abstract

This quasi-experimental study was designed to examine whether increased friendly exposure or contact with an older adult population would influence college students’ (n = 18) attitudes toward aging and their career choices in gerontology. The Aging Health and Development Program (AHeAD) offered at a large southeastern university connects college students and older residents of a local assisted living facility. The students in this service-learning course are required to develop weekly enrichment and fun activities that will motivate the older residents. Students and older residents were paired together to maximize the opportunity for a more intimate bonding experience. The Perceptions of Aging and Elderly Inventory (PAEI) and the Elderly Patient Care Inventory (EPCI) were used to measure the effects of the program on student attitudes toward aging as well as their views on working with the older adult population. Qualitative comments by the students provided a better understanding of the true value of an intergenerational service-learning component in addressing any age bias and prejudiced views of the elderly educational process. It was also found that this intergenerational program enhanced the quality of life for participating seniors. Based on observations and qualitative interviews, residents praised the program for the joyful interactions with younger people, for the opportunity of being exposed to youthful ideas, and feeling more connected with the outside world, especially for those who were socially isolated. Challenges associated with intergenerational service-learning programs and specific recommendations for improving the AHeAD program are included in this evaluation.