The context, mechanisms and outcomes of intergenerational programmes involving people living with dementia in scotland: A realist, qualitative study

TL;DR

This study explores how intergenerational programs in Scotland can help people with dementia by promoting social inclusion and reducing isolation.

Contribution

The study identifies contextual factors and mechanisms for effective intergenerational programs involving people with dementia in Scotland.

Findings

Stakeholders highlighted carer concerns, risk perceptions, and accessibility as key contextual factors.

Flexible planning and using older participants' lived experiences were seen as important mechanisms for success.

Programs were viewed as having potential to benefit older participants with dementia.

Abstract

Intergenerational programmes, involving activity-based interventions designed to promote mutually beneficial interactions between participants, have been used in Scotland and further afield as a means of generating social inclusion between different age groups. There is growing interest in the potential outcomes of intergenerational programmes for people living with dementia in particular, with policy in Scotland recognising that people living with dementia and their carers may be at greater risk of loneliness and social isolation. Given this interest, there is a need to explore what ‘intergenerational best practice’ may look like for people living with dementia. Using data from semi-structured interviews with thirteen stakeholders involved in intergenerational practice and/or dementia policymaking, this study explored the contextual factors, mechanisms, and outcomes of intergenerational programmes in the Scottish context. Stakeholders perceived the concerns of carers, perceptions of risk, along with inaccessible venues and transportation to be important contextual factors. Mechanisms that helped ensure programmes offered full and appropriate participation opportunities included ongoing, flexible programme planning; the provision of purpose and roles; and the use of older participants’ preferences, lived experience, and personhood. Overall intergenerational programmes were perceived to have the potential to promote beneficial outcomes for older participants living with dementia in Scotland.

Figures