The power of bridging generations

Intergenerational programs are gaining recognition as a powerful tool to address some of the most pressing challenges faced by older adults, including social isolation, frailty, and cognitive decline

The INTEGRITY Trial, inspired by the ABC show Old People’s Home for 4-Year-Olds, aims to demonstrate how bringing preschoolers and older adults together can lead to mutual benefits while fostering stronger community connections.

Australia’s ageing population faces significant health challenges. Up to 40% of older adults live alone, with many experiencing social isolation.

This loneliness contributes to declining physical health, increased frailty, and a heightened risk of dementia.

Addressing these issues requires innovative approaches that promote active, engaged lifestyles and reduce healthcare costs.

Intergenerational programs offer a unique and enjoyable way to tackle these challenges.

By bringing older adults and preschoolers together in structured playgroups, these initiatives target multiple risk factors simultaneously, including physical activity, cognitive functioning, balance, flexibility, and social engagement.

Activities such as crafting, music, cooking, dancing, and yoga create joyful interactions that can improve health and wellbeing for participants of all ages.

For older adults, these sessions can reduce loneliness, enhance self-worth, and support better health outcomes. For children, they may foster social skills, empathy, and language development.

Together, participants build mutual respect and understanding, bridging generational divide.

Despite the promise of intergenerational programs, large-scale clinical trials measuring their health benefits have been lacking.

The INTEGRITY Trial, led by The George Institute for Global Health and the University of NSW, aims to fill this gap.

This 20-week playgroup program, hosted at select Sydney preschools, will evaluate the long-term effects of intergenerational activities on both older adults and children.

The trial will measure outcomes in physical, emotional, social, and cognitive aspects for older adults, as well as developmental skills for children.

By providing solid research evidence, the trial hopes to secure broader support for these initiatives, paving the way for sustainable, community-based programs.

If you’re aged 65 or older and interested in participating in the INTEGRITY Trial, visit The George Institute for Global Health or call 02 8052 4365.

This is your chance to join a program that could improve health, build connections, and create joyful experiences for generations to come.

To express your interest in participating, click here. For more information, click here.