Reviews theories providing the rationale for intergenerational programs and upon which intergenerational research concepts are based. The importance of applying these theories to the establishment of a program research framework is discussed. Recent studies are reviewed, and implications for future research and practice in intergenerational…

The social service field of "Intergenerational Programming and Exchange" has emerged in response to the growing elderly population and problems of age segregation and decreased interaction among older and younger generations. This article presents a chronology of events and initiatives contributing to the growth of the field from 1963 to…

The need for reform of the national health care system is particularly evident when viewed from an intergenerational standpoint. None of the generations is currently adequately protected against catastrophic illness or the costs of long-term care. The National Health Care Campaign is sponsoring an initiative for comprehensive intergenerational…

Intergenerational programs and policy approaches are needed for the following reasons: (1) the interdependence of generations; (2) the aging of the population; (3) the imperative of community participation and service; (4) changes in family structure and caregiving; and (5) stereotypes of intergenerational conflict and competition.…

The case for intergenerational programs based on political and moral imperatives is explored. From a political standpoint, organizations for the aging can benefit by demonstrating commitment to child welfare. From a moral standpoint, the organized aging community should provide leadership and support for general social betterment, advocating…

The intergenerational movement is seen as an appropriate counter to the breakdown of the extended family and the loss of shared responsibilities and functions. If grandparenthood is understood as a promotion from primary parenting, older adults can contribute invaluably to children's understanding of lifestage limitations and the importance of…

The potential interface between human development theories and intergenerational programing is explored. Erik Erikson's division of adult development into young, middle, and later adulthood, and Butler and Lewis'"characteristics of older people," are considered. Older people can offer help and encouragement to youth while themselves…

The following social problems suggest the need for an intergenerational movement in the United States: (1) the social isolation of old and young; (2) the political and social strain resulting from Federal budget allocations; and (3) the labor shortage and its impact on social services. Programs linking elders and the young can address these…

Attitude change among older and younger participants in intergenerational programs is investigated. While elderly participants in several programs reported positive feelings resulting from their involvement with children, children's attitudes attributed to intergenerational experiences were mixed. Research should consider longitudinal growth and…

Demographic and socioeconomic status of Hispanic Americans, and particularly of the elderly, are discussed. The leadership roles and legacy of older persons in the extended multi-generational Hispanic American family are examined, and a case study is presented. Programatic efforts are needed to support close family ties and intergenerational…

Steps in the development of intergenerational programs include the following: (1) needs assessment; (2) planning; (3) implementation; (4) assuring program longevity; and (5) establishing a national focus. Detailed description of such stages as facility and site procurement, recruitment, orientation, training, maintenance, and support is provided.…

The application of a systems approach to intergenerational programs is described. This collaborative programing involves structured thinking about program development and problem solving. Components of the process of linking systems are presented, and some examples of local, state, and national efforts are described. Anticipated outcomes of the…

Relationships between old and young have been problematic throughout much of the history of Western civilization. Although intergenerational conflict has accelerated in the twentieth century, pre-industrial and industrial periods in Western societies saw numerous family, economic, and property tensions between generations. Contemporary conditions…

Reasons for evaluating intergenerational programs are presented, and unique features and basic components of these evaluations are described. Strategies and methodologies used in the program evaluation process are systematically outlined. Careful and serious evaluation can provide insights into problem areas, successful program elements,…

The crisis in child care results from the increase in employed parents and the inadequacy of child caregiving resources. This serious family problem can be addressed through advocacy by national intergenerational coalitions, through establishment of day care centers in senior citizen housing, and through elder employment as teachers and…