Search results for ‘Subject term:"older people"’ Sort:
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Young children's perception of the elderly: a comparison of data from the United States and Southeastern Nigeria
- Author:
- OKOYE Uzoma O.
- Journal article citation:
- Journal of Intergenerational Relationships, 3(3), 2005, pp.7-24.
- Publisher:
- Routledge
- Place of publication:
- Philadelphia
Young children's perceptions of the elderly were examined using Child-Adolescent Facts on Aging Quiz in order to assess what relationships exist between perception and contact with the elderly, gender, and age. Comparisons were also made between the findings in this study and a previous one in the United States of America. One hundred and twenty respondents comprising fifty males and seventy females from two primary schools answered the questionnaire. The mean age of the respondents was 10.6 years and about 63% had at least a living grandparent. The results of the study showed that pupils generally have misconceptions of the elderly. Item 6 - "most older workers do not work as well as younger workers" had the highest error rate of 83% while item 4 - "old people are not as strong as younger people" had the lowest error rate of 16%. Some similarities and differences in perception of the elderly were found in the Nigerian and American samples. The implications of these findings are discussed and further areas of research suggested. (Copies of this article are available from: Haworth Document Delivery Centre, Haworth Press Inc., 10 Alice Street, Binghamton, NY 13904-1580).
Factors associated with attitudes toward older adults in social work students: a systematic review
- Authors:
- BAIK Sol, DAVITT Joan K.
- Journal article citation:
- Journal of Gerontological Social Work, early cite July 2021,
- Publisher:
- Taylor and Francis
- Place of publication:
- Philadelphia, USA
This systematic review examined the factors associated with social work students’ attitudes toward older adults or working with older adults from the literature published in the last decade. Twelve peer-reviewed empirical studies published between 2011 and 2020 were included for review. Results suggest that both direct and indirect exposures to older adults positively changed social work students’ attitudes. While infusing exposure to older adults into courses appeared effective in modifying students’ attitudes, inconsistent measurement and lack of information across studies made it impossible to compare the effectiveness of interventions across studies. Implications for gerontological social work education are discussed. (Edited publisher abstract)
Younger workers’ attitudes and perceptions towards older colleagues
- Authors:
- PATEL Jasmine, TINKER Anthea, CORNA Laurie M.
- Journal article citation:
- Working with Older People, 22(3), 2018, pp.129-138.
- Publisher:
- Emerald
Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to investigate younger workers’ perceptions of older colleagues, including whether there is evidence of ageism. Design/methodology/approach: Convenience sampling was used to recruit ten individuals who were both below the age of 35 and employed at a multigenerational workplace in England. The study is qualitative, involving semi-structured interviews that were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. Findings: This study found that whilst some younger employees valued working with older colleagues as they believe that their differing characteristics are complementary, others felt that it leads to intergenerational conflict due to contrasting approaches towards work. Positive perceptions of older workers included their increased knowledge and experience, reliability and better social skills; however, ageism was also prevalent, such as the perception of older workers as resistant to change, slower at using technology and lacking the drive to progress. This study also provided evidence for the socioemotional selectivity and social identity theories. Research limitations/implications: This study has a small sample size and participants were only recruited from London. Practical implications: In order to create working environments that are conducive to the well-being of employees of all ages, organisations should place an emphasis on reducing intergenerational tension. This could be achieved by team building sessions that provide an opportunity for individuals to understand generational differences. Originality/value: There is minimal evidence from the UK focussing on the perceptions of specifically younger workers towards older colleagues and the basis of their attitudes. Only by gaining an insight into their attitudes and the reasoning behind them, can efforts be made to decrease ageism. (Publisher abstract)
Measuring dimensions of intergenerational contact: factor analysis of the Queen's University Scale
- Authors:
- JARROTT Shannon E., et al
- Journal article citation:
- Aging and Mental Health, 22(4), 2018, pp.568-573.
- Publisher:
- Taylor and Francis
Objectives: Intergenerational contact has been linked to a range of health outcomes, including greater engagement and lower depression. Measures of contact are limited. Informed by Allport's contact theory, the Queen's University Scale consists of items rating contact with elders. The authors administered the survey to a young adult sample (N = 606) to identify factors that may optimize intervention programming and enhance young persons' health as they age. Methods: The study conducted exploratory factor analysis (EFA) in the structural equation modeling framework and then confirmatory factor analysis with items pertaining to the general elder population. Results: EFAs did not yield an adequate factor structure. Two alternative confirmatory models were tested based on findings from the EFA. Neither a second-order model nor a first-order model allowing double loadings and correlated errors proved adequate. Conclusion: Difficulty finding an adequate factor solution reflects challenges to measuring intergenerational contact with this scale. Items reflect relevant topics but subscale models are limited in interpretability. Knox and colleagues' analyses led them to recommend a brief, global scale, but this study did not find empirical support for such a measure. Next steps include development and testing of a reliable, valid scale measuring dimensions of contact as perceived by both youth and elders. (Edited publisher abstract)
Older Chinese immigrants' relationships with their children: a literature review from a solidarity-conflict perspective
- Authors:
- LIN Xiaoping, et al
- Journal article citation:
- Gerontologist, 55(6), 2015, pp.990-1005.
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
Purpose of the Study: Older Chinese immigrants are one of the largest and fastest growing groups in Western societies. This article used the solidarity-conflict model to synthesise current research examining parent-child relationships in this group. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in the CINAHL, Medline, and PubMed databases to identify relevant articles. A narrative approach was used to review the literature. Results: Thirty-six articles were identified. Compared with Caucasians, older Chinese immigrants are more likely to live with children and have higher filial expectations. However, considerable numbers live independently. Of these, most live in public housing and rely on the community rather than their children for instrumental help. Many older Chinese immigrants have adjusted their filial expectations and valued being independent. They also provide extensive household help to their children. There are indications of intergenerational conflict, probably due to generational differences in attitudes toward life and limited intergenerational contact. Implications: This review suggests that although filial piety continues to influence older parent–child relationship in Chinese immigrant families, many changes have occurred. These findings have important implications for service planning and delivery for this cultural group. This review also provides evidence for the utility of the solidarity-conflict model. (Publisher abstract)
From positive ageing to positive living; a changing perspective from the Beth Johnson Foundation
- Author:
- WEALLEANS Lynne Marie
- Journal article citation:
- Working with Older People, 19(4), 2015, pp.165-169.
- Publisher:
- Emerald
Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to disseminate the learning from the positive ageing and positive living projects of the Beth Johnson Foundation (BJF) and to contribute to the discourse around ageing and older people. Design/methodology/approach: The content for this case study was drawn from evidence gathering activities with different generations of older people, with key stakeholders, commissioners and policy makers. This was supported by extensive desk top analysis of information and research on the subjects of positive and active ageing. Findings: This case study examines the key elements of positive ageing within a life course context and explores the language and culture around ageing. It makes some recommendations, based on practice, that support a change in the dialogue around ageing from positive ageing to positive living. Practical implications: This approach is of interest to all citizens, to those who work with older people, to commissioners and to decision makers. It promotes a multi-generational approach to the co-design of services. It supports prevention, health promotion and appropriate interventions which are not based on age. It also, therefore, promotes ageing as a “natural” part of the life course, challenges negative stereotypes around ageing and ensures accessible, inclusive and quality services. Social implications: The content and conclusions of the case study challenge some of the traditional thinking and approaches around ageing and recommend a more inclusive approach to service design and delivery. The case study also addresses some of the issues around the language used and the culture around ageing which will contribute to a more forward thinking approach. Originality/value: This is an original case study based on the work of the BJF over a ten year period as it developed its’ Positive Ageing and Positive Living programmes. BJF has been at the forefront of the positive ageing movement by developing mid-life programmes of work and is acknowledged as an expert organisation in the field of intergenerational (and now multi-generational) practice and age friendly communities. (Publisher abstract)
What do we mean when we talk about dementia? exploring cultural representations of "dementia
- Author:
- ZEILIG Hannah
- Journal article citation:
- Working with Older People, 19(1), 2015, pp.12-20.
- Publisher:
- Emerald
Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to contribute to debates about the category "dementia". Dementia is discussed, as it is a social, political and cultural issue, rather than a solely medical phenomenon. Design/methodology/approach: The methodology synthesises perspectives from humanities with the social sciences. Thus a number of cultural texts are analysed critically and set alongside data from two original research projects exploring the use of the arts for people living with a dementia. Central to the research is a close and critical examination of news reports, films, plays and documentaries that represent "dementia". The extent to which metaphorical language frames ways of talking about dementia formed a key part of this analysis. Findings: Until recently, "dementia" has been primarily defined in biomedical terms. This paper demonstrates that understandings of dementia should be extended to encompass social and cultural contexts. Research limitations/implications: The research concentrates on the UK context, but there are lessons that can be extrapolated from to other contexts. Social implications: This paper explores why it is important to understand "dementia" in terms of cultural context, the reasons we should challenge the language often used to describe people living with a dementia, the ways in which prevailing representations of people living with a dementia can affect perceptions and contribute to stigma. Originality/value: This paper presents an alternative perspective, that is not biomedical and draws on original research from both the humanities and social sciences investigating the stories that we tell about this complex condition. (Publisher abstract)
An introduction to intergenerational practice
- Author:
- HATTON-YEO Alan
- Journal article citation:
- Working with Older People, 14(2), June 2010, pp.4-11.
- Publisher:
- Emerald
Intergenerational practice (IP) is designed to bring people together in mutually beneficial activities which promote greater understanding between generations, and contributes to cohesive communities. In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in intergenerational approaches. This article, intended as an introduction to IP, outlines how the first formally described intergenerational programmes were created in North America in the late 1960s as a result of the awareness that social and demographic changes were contributing to a reduction in the interaction between older and younger generations. It describes how by the end of the 1990s IP started to increase dramatically in Europe due to immigration, social inclusion and ageing agendas. The article describes how, in 2001, the Beth Johnson Foundation established the Centre for Intergenerational Practice in the UK. It looks at some of the programmes that have been initiated by the 2000 organisations the centre supports, and how it contributes to UK policy input. It also examines the impact these programmes have had.
Older adults' perceptions of well-being after intergenerational experiences with youth
- Authors:
- REISIG Crystal N., FEES Bronwyn S.
- Journal article citation:
- Journal of Intergenerational Relationships, 4(4), 2006, pp.6-22.
- Publisher:
- Routledge
- Place of publication:
- Philadelphia
Drawing upon Ryff's (1995) positive dimensions of wellbeing in older adulthood, this study investigated older adults' perceptions of well-being following participation in an intergenerational program. The study examined the relationship between age, years of volunteer service, and sense of well-being among older adults (n = 46; 55 to 100 years of age) participating in intergenerational programs at 10 sites in Midwestern, agriculturally based communities in the United States. Using a mixed methods design, results revealed that older adults perceive a heightened sense of well-being from intergenerational interactions with youth. Older adults reported successful aging included staying active, not worrying about one's problems, feeling young, and keeping up with the children and community. Adults aged 74-85 experienced significantly greater satisfaction and enjoyment than their older counterparts, particularly in anticipating working with youth and positive self-perception. No relationship emerged between years of involvement in the program and well-being. Implications for research and program development are discussed. (Copies of this article are available from: Haworth Document Delivery Centre, Haworth Press Inc., 10 Alice Street, Binghamton, NY 13904-1580).
Enhancing gerontology education: the role of older adult auditors in a human development and aging course
- Author:
- DOLL Gayle Appel
- Journal article citation:
- Journal of Intergenerational Relationships, 4(3), 2006, pp.63-72.
- Publisher:
- Routledge
- Place of publication:
- Philadelphia
Co-learning opportunities for elders and students may enhance the ability to make course information “real” for traditional students and provide elders with new relationships that can reduce stereotypical thinking about younger people. This article reports on a Human Development and Aging course taught at Kansas State University in the Spring of 2003 which brought eighteen young adult students and eighteen auditors from a retirement community together to explore their understanding of aging issues. Based on evaluations through focus groups and written surveys, older and younger participants alike experienced changes in their attitudes toward persons of age groups other than their own. (Copies of this article are available from: Haworth Document Delivery Centre, Haworth Press Inc., 10 Alice Street, Binghamton, NY 13904-1580).