E-Thesis 300 views 131 downloads
Exploring the impact of intergenerational activity programmes on those living, visiting and working in care homes across South Wales / KATHERINE HOWSON
Swansea University Author: KATHERINE HOWSON
DOI (Published version): 10.23889/SUthesis.63394
Abstract
Background: Policies advocating the development of age friendly communities acknowledge that the integration of people living with dementia in care homes needs to improve. Intergenerational programmes were developed as a promising method to bridge the generation gap and to reduce inactivity, isolati...
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Swansea, Wales, UK
2023
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| Institution: | Swansea University |
| Degree level: | Doctoral |
| Degree name: | Ph.D |
| Supervisor: | Burholt, Vanessa |
| URI: | https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa63394 |
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| Abstract: |
Background: Policies advocating the development of age friendly communities acknowledge that the integration of people living with dementia in care homes needs to improve. Intergenerational programmes were developed as a promising method to bridge the generation gap and to reduce inactivity, isolation and loneliness for older people in care homes. To date, there is little robust evidence on the impact on younger people, older people and care staff in the UK. The key mechanisms of delivery have not been articulated. This study was designed to address this gap. Methods: Older adult residents (n=97) including those with cognitive impairment), younger people (n= 96) and care staff (n= 53) participated in a mixed methods longitudinal quasi experimental evaluation. Primary outcomes included older adults quality of life, younger people’s attitudes towards older adults with dementia, and care staff job satisfaction. Personal experiences and the mechanisms of impact of the intergenerational activity programmes were also explored. Data were analysed statistically and thematically. Results: Intergenerational activities improved older adults quality of life through engagement in meaningful activity and development of relationships. These effects were sustained through the creation of objects that aided reminiscence. Younger people’s attitudes towards older adults was enhanced. Care staff showed no significant quantitative changes in job satisfaction however qualitative data highlighted an increase sense of purpose amongst activity co-ordinators. Relationships, rather than the activities themselves were central to the success of the intergenerational activity programme. Conclusions: Intergenerational activity programmes delivered in care homes offer benefits to residents, younger people and care staff, creating environments in which meaningful relationships could develop. Whilst intergenerational activities offer a potential solution to some of the challenges in delivering social care in Wales, care staff attitudes towards delivering activities, and inadequate staffing levels remain a barrier to rolling out. |
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| Item Description: |
A selection of content is redacted or is partially redacted from this thesis to protect sensitive and personal information. |
| Keywords: |
Intergenerational activities, intergenerational programmes, care homes, wellbeing, dementia, intergenerational, care providers, activity programmes, attitudes, staff attitudes |
| College: |
Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences |