Findings about Intergenerational Activity

From my experience of running an intergenerational project for over a year my findings are as follows:

Having only worked with older people, I find that if they have an interest already that crosses with working or participating with younger people, they will gladly join. However, if an older person has no interest in participating activities with younger people, unless they really have to, they will not.

I think intergenerational activities is good to bringing strength in the community, but in terms of plugging holes in the community, it is not an option. A subtle approach would be more desirable, but if this is to create an intergenerational activity, this would also be deemed as unethical and a manipulation of vulnerable older people.

So, in conclusion intergenerational activities are good where there is a good strong relationship between older and younger people. However, if there is any disharmony between the two generations, a voluntary approach is not likely to happen.