Abstract
BACKGROUND: Gaining a better understanding of community-dwelling older adults' experience of participating in intergenerational programs (IGPs) is required to better care for older adults. This meta-synthesis aimed to synthesize qualitative research exploring community-dwelling older adults' experience of participating in intergenerational programs. METHODS: Seven databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, and ProQuest) were systematically searched for eligible studies exploring the experience of older adults after participating in community-based intergenerational programs. Studies were included if they: had a qualitative research method; included experiences or feelings of community-dwelling older adults to the non-family intergenerational programs; and involved intergenerational programs designed for older adults over the age of 55 and children or youth from the age of 3 to 18. The Critical Appraisal Skills Program checklist was used for the quality appraisal. Data synthesis was performed by Noblit and Hare's methodology. RESULTS: Thirteen articles were reviewed and synthesized. Four themes were identified. The experiences of participating in intergenerational programs among community-dwelling older adults included fostering familial connections, creating and facilitating self-worth, building community cohesion, and issues and challenges. CONCLUSION: The meta-synthesis proves that intergenerational programs have potential perceived benefits for older adults, but there can also be some risks and challenges if not managed well. Researchers need further research on facilitators and barriers to providing more targeted intergenerational interventions.