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"I loved interacting with this younger generation": Exploring the impact of a virtual service-learning program on social connectedness among older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Source :
- Gerontology & Geriatrics Education; 2024, Vol. 45 Issue 1, p67-85, 19p
- Publication Year :
- 2024
-
Abstract
- Pervasive feelings of social isolation and loneliness have been longstanding among up to half of older adults, and have received increased attention amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Programs to address loneliness and facilitate meaningful connections are vital for physical and mental wellbeing. The purpose of this study was to explore older adults' experiences participating as volunteers in the Aging is Very Personal (AIVP) service-learning program in relation to feelings of social connectedness. As part of an interprofessional gerontology course, 112 undergraduate students interviewed 55 older adult volunteers via Zoom on the lived experience of aging. Older adult volunteers were surveyed on their experiences with the COVID-19 pandemic and the virtual AIVP program. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and reflexive thematic analysis of open-ended questions. Participants reported participation in AIVP had a positive effect on their mood (86%) and made them feel more socially connected (71%). Six themes summarized their experiences: reduced feelings of social isolation; brought me joy; created meaningful intergenerational relationships; gave me a sense of purpose; facilitated genuine engagement; and created important learning opportunities for future health professionals. Virtual AIVP was identified as a valuable program to improve mood and feelings of social connectedness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Subjects :
- PSYCHOLOGICAL aspects of aging
WELL-being
EVALUATION of human services programs
INTERGENERATIONAL relations
SOCIAL media
INTERVIEWING
SERVICE learning
VOLUNTEERS
SOCIAL isolation
UNDERGRADUATES
EXPERIENCE
SURVEYS
INTERPERSONAL relations
PSYCHOSOCIAL factors
RESEARCH funding
LONELINESS
DESCRIPTIVE statistics
EMOTIONS
INTERDISCIPLINARY education
THEMATIC analysis
COVID-19 pandemic
OLD age
Subjects
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 02701960
- Volume :
- 45
- Issue :
- 1
- Database :
- Complementary Index
- Journal :
- Gerontology & Geriatrics Education
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 174878681
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.1080/02701960.2022.2132241