Generations Uniting Through Movement: Research on successful intergenerational projects

Generations Uniting Through Movement (GUM)

Research of the successful implementation of intergenerational collaboration projects

1. Words of Welcome

2. Introduction

3. A brief history of Intergenerational physical activity and programmes

4. The main behaviour change models in literature

4.1 I-Change Model

4.2 The Self Determination Theory (SDT)

4.3. The working principles of the I-change Model and the Self Determination Model

5. Research Method of the Successful Implementation of Intergenerational Collaboration Projects

5.1. Desk Research

5.2. Analysis

5.3. Interviews

6. Results of the Research on the Successful Implementation of Intergenerational Collaboration Projects

6.1. Desk Research

6.2. Objectives

6.3. Programme content

6.4. Outcomes

6.5. Barriers

6.6. Behavioural Change Models

7. Analysis of the 12 identified good cases in the field of intergenerational collaboration projects and activities

7.1. What works?

7.2. Why does it work?

7.3. Barriers and Challenges

8. Research conclusions

9. The 12 Identified best practices in the field of intergenerational collaboration, physical activity and movement

10. References

Appendix 1. Analysis template

Appendix 2. Complete overview of best practices and literature

Words of Welcome

The International Sport and Culture Association has applied for co-funding for the project “Generations Uniting Through Movement” upon identifying the lack of innovative and sustainable programmess in the field of international physical activity and movement.

A sincere thank you to our project partners for their contribution towards the research of the successful implementation of intergenerational collaboration projects, which you will find in this document.

The project partners are:

• ISCA, Denmark

• Youth Sport Trust International, United Kingdom

• Sports Union of Slovenia, Slovenia

• BG Be Active, Bulgaria

• Deporte para la Educación y la Salud, DES, Spain

• Stichting Hanzehogeschool Groningen (Hanze), Netherlands,

• Azur Sport Santé, France

Associative Partners: The Gymnastics Association of Hong Kong, China and Sesc São Paulo from Brazil.

The Generations Uniting Through Movement (GUM) Project aims to use traditional games and sports as one way of promoting intergenerational relations and increased physical activity by setting up an innovative and sustainable GUM programme. It will also include the creation of a European platform and network of EU GUM training modules, a Diary of my Health web app, e-learning platform, advocacy tools, policy recommendations and promotional campaign. The concept for the GUM programme is to identify, recruit, train and support a cohort of experienced practitioners who will facilitate local-scale activities that connect young people with seniors to help increase their participation in physical activity and movement. Rather than focusing on traditional sport, there is a strong emphasis on piloting activities in five countries (Bulgaria, France, Slovenia, Spain and the UK) that explore ways of adapting traditional and non-formal games to different age groups and physical conditions.

We hope you enjoy reading the document.

PHOTO CREDIT

Centre for Ageing Better

2. Introduction

The purpose of this research is to prepare the foundation for a sustainable and innovative Generations Uniting Through Movement (GUM) program which is our consortium’s aim to reach throughout the project period. In order to achieve this goal, it is crucial to do a desk research to identify pre-requisites for inter-generational collaboration and already existing models in literature.

Under the leadership of Stichting Hanzehogeschool Groningen (Hanze), together with the partnership of ISCA, The Youth Sport Trust International, Sports Union of Slovenia, BG Be Active, Deporte para la Educación y la Salud, DES, and Azur Sport Santé, we tried to identify the best practices in the field of intergenerational collaboration and activities. We investigated what made these examples good, the barriers, main outcomes and/or change/impact, and the behaviour change patterns. Hanze University conducted an analysis of 12 selected good examples, which you can find in the following pages, with the contribution of the partners. At the same time, we included the entire collection (39 examples) to our research as an appendix.

We believe that this study will constitute a solid resource for the successful and effective implementation of the GUM programme. We will make frequent use of this study in the upcoming activities of our project, such as establishing a European platform and network, developing an e-learning course and a training tool for practitioners and testing our program in pilot countries.

PHOTO CREDIT Wellness Gallery Catalyst Foundation

A brief history of Intergenerational physical activity and programmes

According to the European Commission’s report on the Mapping Study on the intergenerational dimension of Sport, a universally agreed upon definition of intergenerational sport does not appear to exist in the literature. It suggests a built-on definition of intergenerational activity such as “intergenerational sport is any activity that engages both young and older generations in taking part in sport and physical activities at the same time, and which could include active participation as well as volunteering in sporting competitions, coaching and spectating.”1 This definition coincides with our focus on “movement” rather than “sport” in our project. We discovered a barrier in the word “sport” since physical activities that appeal to both younger and older generations are often more about “movement” than organised sport. We believe that Generations Uniting through Movement (GUM) program could be the right formula to bring generations together.

When we look at the history of the intergenerational programs and activities, we see that they were rapidly developed from the 1960s to the 1970s as a solution to involve both young and older generations in a physical activity practiced together by meeting the needs of both generations that were changed over time 2

One of the early promotions of intergenerational solidarity and programmes is the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations in 20123 as designated by the European Union. The initiative aimed to encourage healthy ageing, independent living and better working conditions for the growing numbers of older people in Europe.

Another report is the WHO’s report on the Physical Activity Strategy for the WHO European Region 2016-2025 which has an objective to “Involve older people in social physical activity” while emphasizing the member states’ role to encourage elderly to engage in physical activity. In this report, we see a brief reference to intergenerational approaches: “… Furthermore, special consideration should be given to intergenerational approaches. The important and active contribution of older people to supporting community-based and voluntary activities is recognized.”4

1 Ecorys (2020). Mapping study on the intergenerational dimension of sport. Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union.Available online: https://sport.ec.europa.eu/news/ mapping-study-on-the-intergenerational-dimension-of-sport

2 Newman D.B., Tay L., Diener E. Leisure and subjective well-being: A model of psychological mechanisms as mediating factors. J. Happiness Stud. 2014;15:555–578. doi: 10.1007/s10902013-9435-x

3 Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations: A Statistical Portrait of the European Union 2012. Available online: https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/products-statistical-books/-/KS-EP11-001#:~:text=In%20response%20to%20demographic%20challenges,a%20society%20for%20 all%20ages.

4 Physical Activity Strategy for the WHO European Region 2016-2025, The WHO, Regional Office for Europe, available online: https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/hand le/10665/329407/9789289051477-eng.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y

While it is known that programmes that bring together young people and the elderly have positive effects on both generations5 (preventing loneliness, reducing depression, improving self-esteem etc.) we observe a lack of mutually beneficial and engaging activities/programmes that are co-created by both generations. Even though there are intergenerational physical activity examples and programmes in many European countries, it is difficult to find scientific research and evaluation on their outcomes and impact. This need has been also highlighted by the Mapping Study on the Intergenerational dimension of Sport6, based on the mapping review exercise of 92 indentified projects in all the EU member states by the European Commission:

“The need to systematically evaluate project and programme outcomes in order to raise awareness of the benefits of intergenerational sport programmes. As also outlined by different consulted stakeholders, the lack of awareness at national level on the importance and relevance of intergenerational sport activities might prevent the inclusion of intergenerational learning practices in the field of sport in national strategic plans or grant programmes, thus also affecting the level of funding available for these types of activities.”

One of our main purposes as the GUM partnership is to work on a creative and sustainable GUM programme that allows both generations to co-create activities as well as increase the awareness at local and national levels on the importance of intergenerational movement and physical activities.

In order to form a solid basis for our program, we examined the main behaviour change models in literature.

5 Buonsenso A, Fiorilli G, Mosca C, Centorbi M, Notarstefano CC, Di Martino G, Calcagno G, Intrieri M, di Cagno A. Exploring the Enjoyment of the Intergenerational Physical Activity. J Funct Morphol Kinesiol. 2021 Jun 14;6(2):51. doi: 10.3390/jfmk6020051. PMID: 34198610; PMCID: PMC8293167. Available on: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/ PMC8293167/#B18-jfmk-06-00051

6 Ecorys (2020). Mapping study on the intergenerational dimension of sport. Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union.Available on: https://sport.ec.europa.eu/news/ mapping-study-on-the-intergenerational-dimension-of-sport

PHOTO CREDIT ISCA

4.

The main behaviour change models in literature

In recent years there is a growing interest in behaviour change largely drawn from psychology and informed by economics and sociology.7 Changing behaviour is a tricky concept that we try to make more understandable and tangible through the use of models. Behaviour change models consider the wide range of psychological, social, societal and contextual factors such as emotions, habits and routines. They are designed to help us to understand how behaviours develop and change over time, and identify the underlying factors that influence it so that we can develop effective intervention strategies 8

I-Change Model

One of the behaviour change models is the Integrated Change model (I-Change model; De Vries et al., 2005). This model is the more comprehensive follow-up to the ASE model (De Vries, 1988) and provides an overview of what goes into the choice we make to exercise, for example.

7 Michie S, et al. (2008). From theory to intervention: mapping theoretically derived behavioural determinants to behaviour change techniques. Applied Psychology: an international review 57(4):660–680

8 Darnton A (2008). Practical Guide: An overview of behaviour change models and their uses. London: Government Social Research Service (GSR))

9 de Vries H, Mesters I, Van de Steeg H, et al. The general public’s information needs and perceptions regarding hereditary cancer: an application of the integrated change

Patient Educ Couns 2005; 56: 154–165.

Figure 1. The Integrated Model for Behavioural Change (I-Change model9 The arrows represent the influence between the different factors.

model.

Behind the I-Change model are the ideas of five older theories. One is the Transtheoretical model (Prochaska & Di Clemente, 1982), which describes six stages of behaviour change. The blocks also found in the ASE model (attitude, social influence, self-efficacy, intention and behaviour) are based on the Theory of Planned behaviour (Ajzen, 1985).

In addition to these two theories, the Goal Setting Theory (Locke and Latham, 1968) is also included. This deals with how to set good, achievable behavioural goals. The idea is that having a good behavioural goal in mind increases the likelihood that you will achieve that goal. This most clearly ties into the “capability factors” box, but relates to more parts of I-Change.

The fourth model behind I-Change is the Health Belief Model This includes predisposing factors and awareness (knowledge, the trigger for action, and risk perception). It also recognizes attitude (the benefits of a particular behaviour) and deals with barriers. The model focuses mainly on health and disease and predicts the likelihood of taking action.

Finally, Social Cognitive Theory (Bandura, 1986) is still included in I-Change. This model talks about the emergence and maintenance of behavioural patterns. The factors of “environment” (social and physical), personal (selfefficacy, emotion) and behaviour (capacity, knowledge) constantly influence each other, according to this model.

I-Change merges all these elements into an orderly whole. However, the above theories do not really deal with the role of the professional as motivator. Therefore, we want to introduce the Self determination theory (Deci & Ryan, 2011) which incorporates a number of studies around the role of the professional.

PHOTO CREDIT ISCA

The Self Determination Theory (SDT)

Basically, a person gets more motivated if there is support given on relatedness, competence and autonomy. Therefore, a professional should establish a good and warm relationship with the elderly people and the youngsters. Overall, a positive, caring climate with mutual respect will build up a good relation. Secondly, the tasks should be not too complex or too basic. A level in which some effort is needed and motivational preferences are met, will give motivation for the future activities. Lastly, a professional should provide some different options. Providing elderly and youngsters with sufficient options will give them some space to find common ground and guarantee ownership. At the end, if a professional is capable of providing fulfilment of the three basic needs, long lasting motivation for physical activity is guaranteed.

Figure 2 The Self determination theory (Deci & Ryan, 2011)

Figure 3. Self Determination theory, based on the work of Deci & Ryan, 2011

The working principles of the I-change Model and the Self Determination Model

Model Working principles

I-change

Awareness-factor Provide sufficient information about the overarching physical and mental health goals of the project

Motivation factors

Check the motivational factors of each individual and try to fulfil them with the activities.

Intention state Built up a stepping stone path to become a physical active individual

Barriers Mapping of barriers and ways to overcome them

Self determination

Professional

Relatedness Provide a positive, safe and caring climate with interest in the elderly people and youngsters

Competence Provide optimal challenges for both parties and give positive feedback

Autonomy Provide with sufficient options to find common ground between participants and provide ownership

Whereas the I-change model postulates the existence of distal psychological factors and has also outlined the importance of some of these factors, less attention is paid to the importance of values and psychological needs.10 On the other hand, the self determination theory (SDT) specifically addresses the importance of internal needs which are universal (competence, autonomy and relatedness). Satisfying these fundamental needs leads to the adoption of health-promoting behaviours, and improved physical and mental health. 11 The acknowledgement of these needs as key elements of motivation differentiates SDT from the other theories.

The I-Change model and Self determination theory show us the complexity of behavioural change. In the context of intergenerational activities many elements of the models may play a role. Until now, little research has been done into the applied models and working principles of intergenerational activities and programmes. Therefore, to create better insight into successful intergenerational programmes we need to have a good overview of knowledge from literature and practice. To that means we have conducted desk research and tried to find good practices supplying us with a set of working principles for intergenerational programmes. Intergenerational activity has been defined as “social engagements and interactions, bringing together younger and older generations for a common purpose”. The mapping study on the intergenerational dimension of sport (Ecorys, 2020) has already provided us with some useful material, but we have extended the search to participating countries in the GUM project.

10 Cheung KL, Eggers SM, de Vries H. Combining the Integrated-Change Model with SelfDetermination Theory: Application in Physical Activity. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2020 Dec 23;18(1):28. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18010028. PMID: 33374522; PMCID: PMC7793065. Available on: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7793065/

11 Ryan R.M., Patrick H., Deci E.L., Williams G.C. Facilitating health behaviour change and its maintenance: Interventions based on self-determination theory. Eur. Health Psychol. 2008;10:2–5.

Research Method of the Successful Implementation of Intergenerational Collaboration Projects

Desk Research

Partners in the GUM project is coming from 7 countries in Europe (Spain, France, Bulgaria, Denmark, United Kingdom, Slovenia and the Netherlands). Together, we performed a scoping search on best practices describing intergenerational programmes involving movement, exercise or sports. One part of the search focused on identifying best practices from all countries, the other part focused on practices described in scientific literature.

To ease the desk research, the partners collaboratively came up with the search terms for the process, displayed in Table 1. If needed, search terms were translated to own languages.

For the scientific literature search we used Web of Science and Pubmed. The search was restricted to literature published from the year 2,000 onwards.

16-25 65+

16-25 * 65+ Activity / program

Adolescent Elderly Intergenerational Activity, activities

• Social

• Physical

Student Seniors Transgenerational Program(me(s))

Youngster Old(er) people Across ages Sport(s)

Young professional Retired Multigenerational Exercise

Immigrants Retirees Multiple ages Movement

Students of sport Older generation Age groups Project

Sport clubs

Senior home(s) Bridging generations Collaboration

Young adults Active in sport clubs Together Fun

Young athletes

Senior society/ societies Connection Games

Young people Elderly homes

Young generations 65+

18+ Old age

Generational learning Physical activity

Bonding Creation

Social impact Sport clubs

Volunteering Learning

Community Sharing

Different generations Intervention(s)

Tools

Co-creation

Co-design

Process

Table 1. Search terms for good practices on intergenerational programs

PHOTO CREDIT ISCA

5.3.

Analysis

Once the literature search was finished, the good practices and scientific papers were analysed. For this, we used a predefined template provided in Appendix 1. The predefined template was created based on the group discussions and brainstorming sessions we had with the partners at the kick off meeting of the GUM project.

Interviews

When information was not available in the documents, all partners contacted programme and activity developers/owners to retrieve more specific information. This has been the most challenging part for the partnership. In some good examples, although the objectives and activities were well defined and much detailed; the impact, outcomes, barriers and behaviour change patterns were not known or not measured by the owners of the examples. This made our research more difficult than expected. For this reason, although we have reached a total of 39 good practices, we decided to identify 12 of them for further study in the field of intergenerational activity.

Results of the Research on the Successful Implementation of Intergenerational Collaboration Projects

6.2. 6.3.

Desk Research

In the course of the GUM project 39 best practices on intergenerational activities were identified. The best practices originated from several countries as displayed in Table 1.

Besides the best practices a scoping review was performed on scientific literature. To narrow down the search we mainly looked for literature reviews on intergenerational programmes. This finally resulted in 17 reviews and individual papers. In the end, 5 studies remained incorporating both age groups and describing intergenerational exercise programmes.

Based on the analysis template a short overview is provided on programme objectives, content, outcomes, barriers and behavioural change models (and principles). The analysis was performed on both the best practices and scientific papers. For a complete overview of the analysis and further reading, see Appendix 2.

Objectives

Out of all the programmes a wide variety of objectives could be extracted. Several programmes had multiple objectives. They can be distinguished into 7 categories having to do with health (n=16) and well-being (n=3), participation in sports and physical activity (n=15), social aspects (n=23), cognitive/ mental/social/emotional functioning (n=5), learning (n=9) and fun (n=2).

Programme content

Table 1. Countries of the best practices

6.4. 6.5.

one-day activities to one-week festivals, for instance. Furthermore, some programmes were organised at a small local level (e.g., Chair Yoga, Easy Tai Chi), whereas others were implemented at a national or even international level (e.g., Generation Games). The ways how youngsters and seniors got together were very diverse. In some programmes, activities were organised for both age groups. In other programmes, one of the two age groups acted as trainer/ facilitator.

Outcomes

The outcomes are mainly related to the objectives and also show a wide variety, but are even more diverse. Most reports on the programmes do not show specific results on the outcomes. Additional outcomes are e.g. motivation, perception of the other generation, development of skills, sense of usefulness and self-esteem.

Barriers

Barriers and challenges mentioned in the best practices mostly related to available time, logistics, available budget/funding, volunteers and motivation. Furthermore, stakeholder engagement is an aspect not to be overlooked, just as sustainability of a programme. A few programmes reported not experiencing any barriers.

6.6.

Behavioural Change Models

Only a few of the best practices and scientifically reported programs describe the use of a behavioural change model in the design of the programme. It is interesting to note that they have used different models and different guiding principles in the designs. From scientific literature, six models emerged:

1. Model of intergenerational engagement

2. Age integration theory

3. Social cognitive theory

4. CBPR (community based participatory research) approach

5. Whole Person Wellness Model (WPWM)

6. Transtheoretical model

Guiding principles from the best practices were the following:

1. Cooperation vs competition (Activities which require cooperation between age groups not competition. Sharing goals between age groups encourages cooperation.)

2. Shared goals (for all age groups)

3. Adjusting to target group (adjust the activity to the competence and needs of the target groups)

4. Proximity of location (activities are more appealing if they are taking place at a location nearby)

5. Easy access (physical activities in the public space, no need to be a member, etc.)

6. Certificate after completion (provide a certificate or diploma after participating in a programme or activity)

7. Buddy system (having a buddy motivates to engage in programmes and activities)

8. Simple (organise simple activities, make it low key to participate)

9. Engaging (activities should be fun and inclusive)

10. Non-structured (not competitive, easy to participate, join when you want)

11. Diversity of activities (make sure to offer a wide variety of activities)

12. Consistency in activities (make sure to align the activities being offered)

Analysis of the 12 identified good cases in the field of intergenerational collaboration projects and activities

We decided to make an analysis of the 12 identified good examples in detail during the second face to face meeting of our project, where we met with partners in Groningen, the Netherlands. At the meeting, where 6 countries were represented, we divided the partners and their countries into various groups, allowing for a fruitful discussion.

For about an hour, we analysed all 12 practices by focusing on 3 main questions: 1) What works?, 2) Why does it work?, and 3) What are the barriers and challenges? After the group discussions, all groups gave a short presentation of their findings/analysis.

What works?

Out of all the good practices some working principles were extracted. According to our analysis on the 12 selected practices, here are the working principles that lead to a successful implementation of an intergenerational activity/project:

1. Combined training: It seems that bringing two different trainings or combining different activities work very well; e.g., combining music and movement.

2. Creating a buddy system: Participants feel more engaged if there is a buddy system. i.e., one youngster connected to one older person.

3. Co-creation of activities: Allowing and guiding participants to cocreate an activity seems to have a good impact on the successful implementation.

4. Toolkits, promotional materials and networking: Other elements for successful programmes/activities are toolkits, promotional materials, proper planning and networking opportunities. In many good practices, it has been mentioned the role of proper planning with an adequate number of staff/volunteers dedicated to the activity for a successful implementation.

5. Cross-sectoral training: It helps to build trust among collaborating parties.

Why does it work?

There were many factors that made programmes work. Here are the main factors:

1. Teamwork, enthusiastic organisations and proper planning in advance are obvious factors. On the organisational side, it is important to have personnel dedicated to the programmes and to ensure a good structure for communication.

2. A strong local collaboration of many partners is supportive as well.

3. When considering the programs, a variation of activities should be offered: not only physical activity, but also lectures on nutrition and health make programmes work.

4. Moreover, making programmes free and easy to access also helps to create fun and success.

5. Other factors to be taken into account are achievable objectives, sharing activities and long-term engagement.

6. Motivation of the volunteers/coaches and organisations involved were often one of the key factors for the engagement of the participants and therefore more successful programs.

Barriers and Challenges

A further specification of experienced barriers was provided during the discussion. Here are the experienced barriers to a successful implementation of an intergenerational activity:

1. Limited space for activities: The lack of green spaces, limited activity areas depending on the weather and season were indicated as one of the main barriers.

2. How to reach the target audience and realise the ‘right’ mindset. Reaching both target audiences was challenging. In some cases, it is difficult to reach young people and involve them in activities, while in some cases it is the opposite. Prejudices also make it difficult to reach the target audience, as the elderly and young people cannot meet in an activity and enjoy it mutually.

3. The lack of available volunteers might form a barrier, just as staff availability.

4. In some places security/safety and regulations may be a challenge.

5. Use of technology may also be perceived as a barrier, due to misuse or mistrust.

Research conclusions

Our literature research and detailed analysis of the selected good practices helped us to reach guiding principles (see section 7) for a successful implementation of an activity/programme in the field of intergenerational collaboration. Although, in most of the practices we encountered, the behaviour change model or patterns were not identified or used in the design of the activities, our research and group discussions showed us how important it is to include a behaviour change model in the design phase for the sustainability and a good implementation.

In addition, our detailed analysis of selected practices showed us in which set-ups and conditions intergenerational activities work better, and what kind of barriers and challenges are encountered. All these findings will constitute a reference point for us in the upcoming activities of the GUM project. We will make frequent use of this study in our project, especially when establishing a European platform and network, developing an e-learning course and a training tool for practitioners and testing our programme in pilot countries.

We believe that our GUM programme, which will be tested during the pilot activities in 5 different countries, will also contribute to this study with new findings.

The 12 Identified best practices in the field of intergenerational collaboration, physical activity and movement

In this section, you can find the details of twelve best practices selected by the project partners. (See section 7 for the analysis of the selected best practices.)

Muévete conmigo (Move with me) Programme title #1

Objective(s)

Combat sedentariness and promote exercise through community engagement. Goal: 1 hour a day (or 3 hours a week minimum) being physically active.

Activities

People register a pledge to undertake 3 hours of physical activity a week over 1 month with a person in their network who they have identified as inactive, overweight or obese (but who wants to change their lifestyle) on the website Muévete Conmigo, by the University of León. In schools, teachers are the promoters who register interest for themselves and students in recruiting a physical activity “buddy”. The website facilitates planning the 3 hours of activity a week together. At the end of the programme, they submit a diary of evidence, complete a questionnaire and receive a certificate of participation.

Behavioural change model(s)

Systematising PA, every week, several times and the focus of the activity as a service to the society for young people, and as a social relationship opportunity for the seniors are the principles to highlight.

Involved stakeholder domains

University of Leon (organiser), León City Council (partner/sponsor), Community associations (sponsors), Educational institutions (participants), Senior citizens (participants)

Age groups

From schoolchildren to the elderly. Targeted at people in need of more activity, especially the elderly

Barriers

• attitudes, abilities, motivations and conduct

• Spatial distribution of services/activities

• Difficulty finding willing participants

• Sustainability and retention after the month is up.

Results / impact

The personal satisfaction of having helped somebody else be more physically active in just one month – “gifting health”.

Introduction to physical activities to sedentary people and creation of new social connections – expected increase in physical activity and reduction in loneliness.

Increase in physical and psycho-social benefits.

Other information (tips & tricks)

Close guidance from the Physical Education department (or teachers from the teaching team who want to embark on this proposal), and the motivation generated in the students to actively participate in it. The prior planning: Establish a timeline with the start and end of the proposal. Explanation of the proposal to pupils, teachers and families.

COUNTRY Spain

University of León

mueveteconmigo. unileon.es

LEADING ORGANISATION

WEBSITE

PHOTO CREDIT

University of León

Silver Geek workshops Programme title #2

Objective(s)

Teach seniors how to use digital technology through an intergenerational program with fun activities (games).

Activities

Activities: 60 group workshops and 250 individual meetings during 8 months to help seniors with various procedures, get them to familiriaze with the digital equipment and use it on a daily basis.

Behavioural change model(s)

For seniors, autonomy in the use of digital technology but a need to maintain social contact with young people.For young people, an evolution in respect in community life.

Involved stakeholder domains

Civic service in social and environmental domain

Solidarity engagement for senior citizens as one of the biggest actions

Age groups

Young people beetween 16 and 25 years old – seniors 65+ years old

Barriers

Competition from structures that offer digital workshops for seniors

COUNTRY

France

LEADING ORGANISATION

Results / impact

• Autonomy in the use of digital technology for seniors

• Need to maintain social contact with young people

• An evolution in respect in community life for young people

• High satisfaction levels of all parties involved (seniors, partners, youth)

Other information (tips & tricks)

• Collaboration with insurances and pension funds to communicate and reach the seniors

WEBSITE

Laboratory for the Diagnostics of Somatic and Motor Development silver-geek.org

SOURCE

delphis-asso.org/ articles/2021/09/ rendez-vousjeunes-seniorspour-sinitier-aunumerique

• Motivation of the volunteers (feeling useful, working for a good cause)

• Local networking

• Longer engagement – 8 months

• Tackling barriers (mistrust towards technology and some institutions, lack of knowledge…)

PHOTO CREDIT Silver Geek Workshops

Día Intergeneracional de la Actividad Física Programme title #3

(Intergenerational Day of Physical and Healthy Activity)

Objective(s)

1. Bring generations together through play and physical activity to learn and share experiences.

2. Conduct research at the University of Valladolid

3. Promote the City Council’s intergenerational Active and Healthy Parks Programme.

Activities

The day was proposed as an exchange of experiences, games, physical activity and knowledge between generations mainly aimed at the interconnection between these.

COUNTRY

Spain

LEADING ORGANISATION

University of Valladolid, Segovia City Council and ANEJA School

WEBSITE

Jornada

Intergeneracional Parques Activos Y Saludables

There were two main groups of physical activity, which were local sports and a small orienteering test. The groups were formed through the participating schools, which were responsible for contacting the families of the participating groups of pupils so that they could register family members for the day. They could make use of the healthy circuits that the City Council had implemented in the green spaces of the city.

Behavioural change model(s)

informal learning by mimicry and in good company

Involved stakeholder domains

Segovia City Council, Aneja School Segovia, University of Valladolid

Age groups

University of Valladolid Faculty of Physical Education students to control, develop and monitor activities, pupils from various primary schools in Segovia and their elderly relatives, covering the whole age range.

Results / impact

Older people have a lot to contribute to the training of young people and they, in turn, act as motivators and companions. In one type of activity, the older people contribute more with their experience and knowledge, and in the other, the children contribute more by guiding and facilitating the activity. There were enough participants from the school Aneja to carry out the research thanks to the longstanding good relationship with and the involvement of families. The message was shared that physical activity is necessary at any age to bring about individual and social benefits like better health, autonomy, communication, psychomotor and cognitive skills, and stronger relationships.

Other information (tips & tricks)

It worked well that the elderly people were relatives of the children themselves. It helped to break the ice, achieve a better coexistence and also meant that physical activity and connection could be continued into the future. FAMILY + NATURE = PERMANENT HEALTH!

No improvisation, many days of preparation beforehand are needed! The University students were training to be future teachers and they supervised the activities.

PHOTO CREDIT Aneja Segovia

LEADING

Hopp la Foundation Programme title

Creating spaces for physical activity for all generations

Objective(s)

Intergenerational meetings through physical activity and promote a sustainable encouragement of PA for people over 50 yeras old.

Activities

• Intergenerational Health and Physical Activity Promotion;

• Moments of shared pleasure!

• Intergenerational Implementation (train not separately, but together)

• Prevention programs: a combined training of force and coordination of significant preventive effects.

• Organising spaces encouraging intergenerational physical activities.

• Example Hopp-la Park: A Hopp-la Park is a movement and meeting space that meets the needs of all generations.

• Hopp-la Parcours: a playful guide to movement that connects generations

• Guidelines for movement spaces for all generations

• “Generations on the MOVE” training course: The aim is to acquire theoretical and practical basics for the planning and implementation of generational movement offers with children and older adults.

• Physical Activity Games (Exciting New Gear); “Gaming machines” – children use them with adults, interactive water games -joint experimentations,

Behavioural change model(s)

Children’s physical activity significantly depends on available green spaces, traffic intensity and proximity to sports clubs; • Easy access (physical activities in the public space, no need to be a member, etc.); • Link physical activity to key seniors’ centres of interest:nature, cultural activities, children’s company

WEBSITE

Involved stakeholder domains

Basel Municipality; Hopp la Foundation

Age groups

Elderly people and children

Results / impact

Psychological, social and cognitive aspects:

• Improved social skills, self-esteem, language skills, increased quality of life, increased hapiness level, combined drive of strength and balance, moments of shared pleasure,

• Reduced risk of falling among the elderly (65-97-year) by 15 to 50% thanks to strength training and balance; increased autonomy of those concerned), social added value/positive influence on relations between generations.

• Economic aspects: the costs of healthcare can be reduced (less overweight, diabetes, depression, falls, etc. – Switzerland will have the fittest population in the world and a society with (long-term) significant savings in health;

Other information (tips & tricks)

Recommendations to encourage physical activity in public and private spaces:

• Develop play areas and spaces

• Encourage physical activity in school and recreation; Unique in the world: the J+S program, which encourages physical activity from the age of 5

• vimeo.com/153491038?from=outro-embed

PHOTO CREDIT Hopp-la Foundation

COUNTRY

Switzerland International Generation Games Association

Generation Games Programme title

Objective(s)

The Generation Games is multi-sports, multi-generations, multi-purpose.

1. Intergenerational collaboration, 2. Inclusive approach, 3. Healthy and active lifestyle for all ages, 4. Cross-border collaboration (cities share the experiences of their edition with others

The overall objective: positive community impact

Activities

• Developping toolkits and materials to promote generation games events. Toolkit: generationgames.com/toolkit

• Practical user’s guide: generationgames.com/do-it-yourself it consists of the eight steps to follow in order to host a successful event that promotes intergenerational health and wellbeing in different communities.

• Generation Games have had many editions starting from 2012 in Lausanne, Oslo, Rotterdam, Tampere, Lillehammer, Salem, Amsterdam, Budapest

Behavioural change model(s)

Citizen involvement is increased if cultural activities are also involved in a a festive, sympathetic, relaxed atmosphere for people of all ages.

Involved stakeholder domains

Sports federations, NGOs, Universities, athletes, companies and many others are closely involved for providing materials and expertise for Generation Games editions

generationgames.com

OTHER SOURCES

youtu.be/_2m_VGlJs38

PHOTO CREDIT

Julia Wimmerlin

Age groups

All age groups but mainly elderly people and children

Results / impact

Psychological, social and cognitive aspects: Generations brought together via sport and play, valuable interaction is stimulated. It works as a two-way street: (grand)parents learn from their (grand)children and vice versa.

Other information (tips & tricks)

You need enthusiastic organisers. Every community is capable of organising an edition, even without professionals. Teamwork will be important, connecting/involving expertise in the field of event management, communication, and so forth. Many hands make light work. Preparing the event is part of the fun. And you decide on the scale and ambition.

COUNTRY

United Kingdom

LEADING ORGANISATION

Intergenerational Music Making (IMM) and Youth Sport Trust (YST)

WEBSITE

moveandgroove.org.uk youthsporttrust.org

Move & Groove Programme title

Objective(s)

To maximise health and social benefits for young and older people through an innovative intergenerational music and movement programme

Activities

IMM and YST worked together to author materials, provide training and identify settings for delivery of music and movement activities

Behavioural change model(s)

Delivery of cross-sector training proves successful in building initial relationships and trust between care home and school staff

Involved stakeholder domains

Schools and care homes, London South Bank University as research

Age groups

Primary school age children and older people circa over 70 years

Results / impact

• 32 staff members and volunteers trained

• 95 individuals took part in Move & Groove sessions

• 10 new intergenerational connections

• 3,600 minutes of music and movement shared

Other information (tips & tricks)

Time required for planning and delivery

It is important to have a person responsible for the programme in both school and care home settings.

PHOTO CREDIT Youth Sport Trust

COUNTRY

United Kingdom

Active Across Ages Programme title

Objective(s)

To enhance physical and mental wellbeing between young and older; Establish credible and impactful models of intergenerational activity for future use both in the UK and internationally.

Activities

10 schools across 5 areas

All identified at least one older person’s setting to partner with Young people in schools trained as Activity Buddies Activity Buddies worked with older people to deliver activities, which had focus on physical

Behavioural change model(s)

Cooperation between age groups, not competition.

Involved stakeholder domains

Schools (primary, secondary, special) and older people’s settings, predominantly care homes

Age groups

Mainly 7-11 year olds at primary schools and over 70s in care homes

Results / impact

youthsporttrust.org

Positive outcomes for both younger and older people

• 94% of young people felt their communications skills improved

• 92% of young people felt their teamwork skills improved

• 95% of young people felt they had a better view of older people

• 84% of older people felt their feelings of companionship improved

• 90% of older people felt their perceptions of young people improved

• 86% of older people felt their happiness levels had increased

Other information (tips & tricks)

Allow plenty of planning time and be flexible about the programme. Ensure that there is a lead person in both the school and older person settings. Teachers and Activity buddies received briefing and training. Monitoring and evaluation framework was developed-baseline data collection, interim data collection, post-intervention data collection

Youth Sport Trust

LEADING ORGANISATION

WEBSITE

PHOTO CREDIT Youth Sport Trust

Bulgaria

LEADING ORGANISATION

“BalkankarRecord”

Plovdiv/Municipality of Plovdiv

WEBSITE

facebook.com/ sportzavsichkiplovdiv? locale=bg_BG

Programme title

Sport for All Movement

Mom, Dad and Me-Grandma, Grandfather and Grandchild

Objective(s)

Intergenerational interactions through sport for all Activities

The marathon is organised on different dates (sometimes on the occassionof the national holidays) in different location around the city of Plovdiv. The disciplines are: running for all age groups – from kindergarten to the oldest participants. The cross is without registration in advance. Those wishing to take part stand at the start, take a sports number and join the race.

Behavioural change model(s)

Simple Engaging

Non-structured

Involved stakeholder domains

Civic organisations / municipality

Age groups

All the age groups

Results / impact

The initiative allows any participant of different age to join – no specific requirements are set. Any participant joins depending on their abilities and interest. For 34 years, more than 2 million participants have taken part in the sports holidays. The movement has become a springboard for young people to professional sports. “Sports for all” has many facilitators.

Other information (tips & tricks)

At the end of the race/marathon the best performing participants are awarded at the ceremony

PHOTO CREDIT Sport for All Movement

COUNTRY

Bulgaria

LEADING ORGANISATION

Municipality of Gabrovo and local partners

WEBSITE

priemimenaselo.eu

PHOTO CREDIT

Take me to the village

Programme title

Take me to the village

Objective(s)

To get to know, preserve the Bulgarian culture by passing on knowledge from the elderly to the younger generation

Activities

“Take Me to the Village” for young people aged 15-29; “Take me to the village -Junior” for children aged 9-14; “Take me to the village” day camp for children aged 9-14 from Gabrovo; Academy “Take me to the village” for young people aged 15-29; Youth exchange with participants from foreign cities partnering for the city of Gabrovo. Elderly people host one or more youth/children in their houses involving in daily activities

Behavioural change model(s)

Intergenerational dialogue, traditions

Involved stakeholder domains

Municipality / local civic organisations / community centres/ youth and elderly

Age groups

9-29 / the elderly in the region of Gabrovo

Results / impact

By 2019, a total of 16 villages had joined, including three which are not in Gabrovo municipality; a total of 393 young people visited village, and over 1,000 elderly people participated. The biggest benefit for adults from their participation in “Take me to the village” is emotional.

Other information (tips & tricks)

None defined.

COUNTRY

The Netherlands

LEADING ORGANISATION

Harens Lyceum

WEBSITE

harenslyceum.nl/ gezonde-school/

PHOTO CREDIT Harens Lyceum

Programme title

Citizenship in Action

Objective(s)

Young people try to activate the elderly through games and sports activities

Activities

Sjoelen(Dutch shuffleboard game), checker, chess, easy ball games. The department of sports looked in the immediate area to see what opportunities there were to put citizenship into practice. In the vicinity is a home for the elderly and contact was made with this home.

Behavioural change model(s)

Activities which lead to success for all participants;partof policy of the school and government; yearly event”health week”; structural implementation

Involved stakeholder domains

Elderly home, high school

Age groups

High school kids, senior home residents (no age specified)

Results / impact

Contact was realized. Elderly and young people have been interacting. Sports and games were the means. At first the children found this exciting, but in the end, they experienced it as very instructive. The students but also the elderly had a lot of fun.

Other information (tips & tricks)

Learn by doing; Just keep it simple; Realizing activities together Creativity; Realizing accessibility; Creating a climate to interact with each other.

Programme title

1000 movements

Objective(s)

The goal and purpose of the association is to cover the whole of Slovenia with organized morning outdoor exercise, to strenghten physical and mental health of the individual as well as socialization.

Activities

30 min morning exercise in all seasons, taking place outside (parks etc.) Annual meetings/gatherings to encourage social interaction and strengthen the bonds among participants. Lectures on healthy lifestyles, nutrition, breathing exercises, and meditation techniques are also held at the meetings.

Behavioural change model(s)

Increasing physical activity and exercise and socialization among erderly; cooperation between organizations and individuals working in the field of sports for all.

Involved stakeholder domains

The School of Health Associatione

LEADING ORGANISATION WEBSITE

solazdravja.com/ en-presentationof-the-school-ofhealth-association/

The School of Health Association

Civil society, local communities, Ministry of Health, organizations and individuals working in the field of sport for all (Sports union of Slovenia, partly Olympic Committee of Slovenia).

Age groups

Elderly

Results / impact

The School of Health Association currently has 246 groups operating in 91 municipalities in all Slovenian regions. They currently have 4756 members. Some groups started to connect with kinesiology students, who prepare additional exercises for them. Every September for the last 3 years, the Sports union of Slovenia together with the Olympic committee of Slovenia organize an event Active day for the erderly and offer them free fitness testing (European Fitness Badge).

PHOTO CREDIT

simbioza.eu/projekti/

Programme title

Simbioza Giba

Objective(s)

Since 2014, Symbiosis Movement has been taking place in the form of an annual all-Slovenian campaign and combines the ideas of intergenerational cooperation, volunteering and physical activity. Project aims to offer various free physical activities for all generations from 9 months to 100+ years, which are based on intergenerational cooperation and socializing and volunteering. The goal is to promote regular physical activity throughout the life span, to enable intergenerational cooperation, to contribute to the socializing among young and the erderly.

Activities

Free physical activities, challenges, group exercise, competitions (eg. the best municipality)

Behavioural change model(s)

Increasing awareness about intergenerational cooperation, improving socialization of erderly people, more possibilities for free physical activities among elderly people..

Involved stakeholder domains

Schools, kindergartens, municipalities, health centers and homes for the elderly, individuals – volunteers, civil society, sport clubs, individuals working in the field of sport for all.

Age groups

9 months – 100+ years

Results / impact

137563: Number of all participants

2436: Number of organizations involved

4402: Number of locations

Other information (tips & tricks)

The campaign usually takes place throughout May, with an emphasis on the central week in the beginning of the month.

PHOTO CREDIT

Symbioza Giba

References

Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations: A Statistical Portrait of the European Union 2012. Available online: https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/productsstatistical-books/-/KS-EP-11-001#:~:text=In%20response%20to%20demographic%20 challenges,a%20society%20for%20all%20ages.

Ajzen, I. (1985). From intentions to actions: A theory of planned behaviour. Ina J. Kuhl & J. Beckmann (Eds.), Action control: From cognition to behaviour. Berlin, Heidelberg, New York: Springer-Verlag. (pp. 11-39).

Bandura, A. (1986) Social foundations of thought and action: A social cognitive perspective. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Princeton-Hall.

Buonsenso A, Fiorilli G, Mosca C, Centorbi M, Notarstefano CC, Di Martino G, Calcagno G, Intrieri M, di Cagno A. Exploring the Enjoyment of the Intergenerational Physical Activity. J Funct Morphol Kinesiol. 2021 Jun 14;6(2):51. doi: 10.3390/jfmk6020051. PMID: 34198610; PMCID: PMC8293167. Available on: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ pmc/articles/PMC8293167/#B18-jfmk-06-00051

Cheung KL, Eggers SM, de Vries H. Combining the Integrated-Change Model with Self-Determination Theory: Application in Physical Activity. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2020 Dec 23;18(1):28. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18010028. PMID: 33374522; PMCID: PMC7793065. Available on: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7793065/

Darnton A (2008). Practical Guide: An overview of behaviour change models and their uses. London: Government Social Research Service (GSR))

De Vries, H., Mesters, I., Van der Steeg, H., & Honing, C. (2005). The general public’s information needs and perceptions regarding hereditary cancer: an application of the Integrated Change Model. Patient Education and Counselling, 56 (2), 154–165.

De Vries, H., Dijkstra, M. & Kuhlman, P. (1988). Self-efficacy: the third factor besides attitude and subjective norm as a predictor of behavioural intentions. Health Education Research, 3, 273–282.

Ecorys (2020). Mapping study on the intergenerational dimension of sport. Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union.

Locke, E.A. (1968). Toward a theory of task motivation and incentives, organisational behaviour and Human Performance [online]. Volume 3, Issue 2, Pages 157-189.

Michie S, et al. (2008). From theory to invention: mapping theoretically derived behavioural determinants to behaviour change techniques. Applied Psychology: an international review 57(4):660–680

Newman D.B., Tay L., Diener E. Leisure and subjective well-being: A model of psychological mechanisms as mediating factors. J. Happiness Stud. 2014;15:555–578. doi: 10.1007/s10902-013-9435-x

Physical Activity Strategy for the WHO European Region 2016-2025, The WHO, Regional Office for Europe, available online: https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/hand le/10665/329407/9789289051477-eng.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y

Prochaska, J.O., & DiClemente, C.C. (1982). Transtheoretical therapy: Toward a more integrative model of change. Psychotherapy: Theory, Research & Practice, 19(3), 276–288.

Ryan R.M., Patrick H., Deci E.L., Williams G.C. Facilitating health behaviour change and its maintenance: Interventions based on self-determination theory. Eur. Health Psychol. 2008;10:2–5.

Appendix 1. Analysis template

Programme/activity name

Source

Target group(s)

Target / goal / objective

Programme elements

Activities

Recruitment

Actions

Reach

Stakeholders

Professionals

Barriers

Facilitators

Outcomes

Theoretical model

Working mechanisms

Other

Appendix 2. Complete overview of best practices and literature

You can find below a one page showcase of 39 good practices and literature examples

Programme/activity name Citizenship in Action

Lead organisation Harens Lyceum

Country The Netherlands

Period 2022 – ongoing

Objective Young people try to activate the elderly through games and sports activities.

Programme, activities, events Sjoelen (Dutch shuffleboard game), checker, chess, easy ball games.

Stakeholders and roles

Elderly home, High school.

The department of sports looked in the immediate area to see what opportunities there were to put citizenship into practice. In the vicinity is a home for the elderly and contact was made with this home.

Barriers No barriers identified.

Outcomes

Contact was realised. Elderly and young people have been interacting. Sports and games were the means. At first the children found this exciting, but in the end, they experienced it as very instructive, and the students but also the elderly had a lot of fun.

Principles for behaviour change

Tips & Tricks

Other information

Activities that lead to success for all participants; part of policy of the school and government; yearly event “health week”; structural implementation.

Learn by doing; Just keep it simple; Realizing activities together.

Creativity; Realising accessibility; Creating a climate to interact with each other.

Source https://www.harenslyceum.nl/gezonde-school/

Programme/activity name Active Across Ages

Lead organisation

Youth Sport Trust International

Country United Kingdom

Period Dec 2018 – Jan 2020

Objective

The key aims of Active Across Ages were to:

• Facilitate social mixing to promote social wellbeing between young and older people.

• Enhance physical and mental wellbeing between young and older people

• Boost social action and social capital.

• Establish credible and impactful models of intergenerational activity for future use both in the UK and internationally.

Programme, activities, events

Active Across Ages aims to develop and deliver an action-based research project focused on intergenerational activity inspired and facilitated through the power of play and sport. Developed by Youth Sport Trust, UK partner of Youth Sport Trust International, Active Across Ages was delivered across five geographical locations across the country. Each location had a lead school and a partner school and schools identified at least one older person’s setting to partner with for the project.

Young people from the schools (primary, secondary and special) were trained as Activity Buddies and they then worked with older people to deliver activities, with a focus on physical activity, that both older people and young people can enjoy together.

Stakeholders and roles

Schools – primary, secondary and special – to identify the young people teachers felt could benefit most from the project. They were trained as activity buddies to connect with older people and develop together the physical activities they would engage in together. A range of older people settings were recruited to take part in the project – day center, doctor’s surgery, residential home and community groups so that older people could engage with the young activity buddies and take part in the project. Most schools delivered weekly sessions with the older people.

Barriers

Outcomes

It takes time to build the partnerships between schools and older people settings and plan the activities so project activities took longer than expected to start.

The evaluation report of the project shows the good results achieved for both younger and older people:

• 94% of young people felt that their communication skills improved after being involved in the program;

• 92% of young people felt that their teamwork skills improved after being involved in the program;

• 87% of young people felt that their leadership skills improved after being involved in the program;

• 95% of young people felt that they had a better view of older people after being involved in the program;

• 84% of older people felt that their feelings of companionship improved after being involved in the program

• 90% of older people felt that their perceptions of young people had improved after being involved in the program

• 86% of older participants felt that their happiness levels had increased.

Principles for behaviour change

Tips & tricks

Mutually beneficial activities – recognizing what everyone brings. Activities which require cooperation between age groups not competition. Sharing goals between age groups encourages cooperation. Design activities which encourage sharing stories. Encourage groups to learn about each other as individuals.

1. Ensure there is a lead member of staff in the school and the older person setting.

2. Allow sufficient time to plan the project in advance.

3. Carefully consider the location of the activities.

4. Carefully consider who to recruit as activity buddies.

5. Allow flexibility to ensure the project is delivered within the local context and complements local priorities.

6. Support the activity buddies and manage expectations.

7. Tailor the activities to suit participants’ interests and abilities.

8. Ensure that project momentum is maintained.

9. Build on early benefits that emerge.

10. Showcase project activities to demonstrate impact.

Other information

Teachers received briefing and training. Activity buddies received training. Monitoring and evaluation framework was developed – baseline data collection, interim data collection, post intervention data collection.

Source https://www.youthsporttrust.org/programmes/active-across-ages

Programme/activity name Active Ageing Festival

Lead organisation

Sports Union of Slovenia

Country Slovenia Period

Since 2016

Objective

Programme, activities, events

Stakeholders and roles

Promoting HEPA among older adults and strengthening cooperation between sport organisations, senior organisations, and health stakeholders.

A national network of one-day events for older adults. The local event includes a short lecture about the benefits of HEPA for older adults, and organised physical activities for older adults.

Sports Union of Slovenia, local sport clubs, daily centres for the elderly, local associations for retired people, and homes for the elderly. Co-funded by the Foundation of Sport and Ministry of Sport.

Barriers

Outcomes

Principles for behaviour change

Tips & tricks

Never enough funding available. Difficult to find volunteers. Logistics.

2022: 1736 participants, 52 local events, 14 local sport organisations, 24 towns, 73 staff involved

Regularity. Support at the beginning. Interesting activities. Promotion through channels for older adults. Adjusting to the target group.

Promotion with addressing the emotions. Doctor’s advice. Support at the beginning. Interesting activities. Promotion through channels for older adults. Adjusting to the target group. Empowerment of staff.

Other information

Source

N/A

https://www.sportna-unija.si/?t=9110000074

Programme/activity name Odysseia – Youth and Senior Integration Through Diverse Sport Events

Lead organisation

Youth DRPDNM

Country Slovenia Period

Objective

Programme, activities, events

2019-2021

The aim of the project is to popularise sport and active lifestyle among young and seniors.

ODYSSEIA – Youth and Senior Integration Through Diverse Sport Events is the initiative of Polish, Slovenian and Lithuanian organisations. The aim of the project is to popularise sport and active style of life among young and seniors. ODYSSEIA project has been founded with support from the European Union within Erasmus+ Program 2014-2020, Action: “Small Collaborative Partnerships in the field of Sport”.

Stakeholders and roles Coordinator: Centrum Kształcenia Ustawicznego w Sopocie / The Centre for Continuing Education: together with Sopocki Uniwersytet Trzeciego Wieku / Sopot Third Age University, Poland

Partners:

BLASK – Sport Club, Lithuania

YOUTH DRPDNM, NGO, Slovenia

Barriers

Outcomes

Principles for behaviour change

Tips & tricks

Other information

N/A

Healthy socialisation, strengthen relationships increased self-confidence, discipline, teamwork

N/A

N/A

Project Results: https://odysseiaproject.eu/results

Source https://odysseiaproject.eu/

Programme/activity name Funmilies

Lead organisation

Slovenian Third Age University

Country Slovenia

Period

Objective

Jan 2021 – Dec 2022

The project aims to address the challenges of loneliness, isolation, as well as the problems related to sedentary life and lack of movement of older people (65+) in Europe through the promotion of active and healthy ageing. It intends to encourage participation in sport and physical activity.

Programme, activities, events

Stakeholders and roles

The partners will first do field research, then they will develop a Capacity Building Program and pilot Intergenerational Sports Events in sports clubs. Finally, they will develop an online platform.

ANCE (Athens Network of Collaborating Experts); ABS (Active Bulgarian Society); BAIS (Budapest Association for International Sport); SCS Danilo Dolci; Slovenian Third Age University.

Barriers

Observed barriers: Intergenerational sporting activities are not part of the sports systems, neither are they conceptualised. There is little provision and little awareness of the existence of intergenerational sporting activities and their formats, contents and functions.

Outcomes

Key findings:

1. Women, be they under 25 or over 65, are more open to new experiences including intergenerational sports.

2. Intergenerational sports can be attractive for heterogeneous groups with quite different educational backgrounds.

3. The educational gap between younger and older people will continue widening.

4. Younger people under 25 and older people over 65 are in the same state – liberated of the constraints of numerous and demanding social roles.

5. Being married or in a couple may diminish the desire to be included in intergenerational sports.

6. Older women over 65 are more eager to participate in all sorts of social activities than men who have a tendency to be idle relying on their wives’ emotional support.

Principles for behaviour change

N/A

Tips & tricks According to this Funmilies Survey Research (2021), younger and older respondents tend to look at sports in a similar manner. They all consider sport as a pleasurable, healthy, community activity that brings people together. In the eyes of the respondents in all targeted countries, sports are more associated with moving, pleasure and game than with negative phenomena such as doping, fraud or pain and suffering. The majority of the respondents think it is a recreation and leisure-time activity and not a professional and competitive one.

Other information

e-learning platform: https://funmilies-project.eu/elearning_platform/

Source https://www.funmilies-project.eu/

Programme/activity name SLOfit Students and adults

Lead organisation University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Sport

Country Slovenia Period

Objective

Ongoing

1) To allow people of different generations to monitor their physical fitness every year and also receive guidance in how to improve things or where to turn for help/exercise;

2) To educate local sport clubs, health institutions and different patient associations to carry out the measurements and use the SLOfit platform for data management and immediate feedback.

Programme, activities, events

First lifelong physical fitness monitoring. SLOfit Students – monitoring system in schools and SLOfit Adults – for adults. “My SLOfit app”, a web-based application which provides smart algorithms for data cleansing, access to personal, and school reports which are provided to different end-users for predicting one’s physical development, health risks and fitness status.

Stakeholders and roles N/A

Barriers N/A

Outcomes

Change: More than one half of the entire population of Slovenia are included, over 8.3 million sets of measurements and over 200,000 measured children and adolescents annually. Physical efficiency index of primary-school children increased from 49.7 in 2011 to 50.5 in 2015

the share of overweight children declined for 1.9 % between 2011 and 2015.

Principles for behaviour change

Tips & tricks

Other information

Source

N/A

N/A

https://youtu.be/xTYizrkS1zc

https://en.slofit.org/

Program/activity name

Ateliers Silver Geek

Lead organisation Laboratory for the Diagnostics of Somatic and Motor Development

Country France

Period Oct 2021 – Apr 2022

Objective

Programme, activities, events

Teach elderly people how to use digital media through an intergenerational program with fun activities (games).

Digital media workshops organised by a group of youngsters (16-25 years old) for around 40 elderly people (65+ YO). 5 workshops organised and animated by a team of 4 youngsters in 5 different municipalities with 8-10 elderly in each group. Each workshop contains up to 20 sessions with various fun activities like video games and tournaments.

Stakeholders and roles Habitat de la Vienne; Unis-Cité; Delphis Habitat & innovation.

Barriers

Outcomes

Competition from structures that offer digital workshops for seniors.

The success of Silver Geek workshops can be explained by several specific characteristics:

1. They are held at regular intervals for several months in the same facilities for seniors, which creates favourable conditions for the acquisition of digital skills and the development of real intergenerational relationships.

2. They are easily accessible, because they are free and “without obligation” for the senior beneficiaries, which differentiates them from more traditional training courses that often include exams to assess the level of mastery of this or that use, which can put off a large part of this population.

3. They adapt to the desires/needs of seniors and young people, alternating between video game practices and discovery/learning of other digital uses, each being a source of proposals in a logic of coconstruction.

4. They allow the elderly to get back into physical activity, through the practice of video games based on movements (exergames), and build loyalty among participants thanks to the dynamics of the Esport competitions “Trophée des séniors Silver Geek”.

Principles for behaviour change

For seniors, autonomy in the use of digital technology but a need to maintain social contact with young people.

For young people, an evolution in respect in community life.

Tips & tricks

Get closer to pension funds to communicate to and reach seniors. Work on creating a local network.

Longer engagement for better results

Other information

Source

https://silver-geek.org/nos-actions/les-ateliers/

https://www.delphis-asso.org/articles/2021/09/rendez-vous-jeunes-seniorspour-sinitier-au-numerique

Programme/activity name Grassmoor Allotment Project

Lead organisation

Derbyshire county council

Country England Period 2008

Objective

Programme, activities, events

To improve community cohesion and positive practical action for the prevention of and reduction in obesity in all generations.

Young people start with a nutrition school lesson – after, a getting to know you session with a “willow weaving” activity to enable members of all generations involved to join forces and make a tepee – last step: Working on the allotment once a week. Tend and plant as required younger and elder tend and plant as required.

Stakeholders and roles Schools – Representatives of Derbyshire Intergenerational Strategy (DIgS) – the allotment society.

Barriers N/A

Outcomes

Principles for behaviour change

Tips & tricks

Communities become more tolerant towards each other and contribute to a lifestyle change, improving their health and wellbeing at the same time.

Communities become more tolerant towards each other and contribute to a lifestyle change, improving their health and wellbeing at the same.

The ultimate measurement of success is sustainability of intergenerational activity which will have a longitudinal impact on the relationships between the younger and older members of the community.

Other information N/A

Source

http://www.derbyshire.gov.uk/community/helping_all_ages/default.asp

Programme/activity name Move and Groove

Lead organisation

Youth Sport Trust

Country England

Period May – June 2022

Objective

These projects are rooted in empowering groups and individuals, promoting new intergenerational connections, and showcasing the inherent relationship between music and movement.

Programme, activities, events

Pairs of schools and care homes across England have been identified to work together on this exciting project. Members of staff from each setting will attend a regional training day at the end of April where they will learn how to run a project in their area, take part in and practise leading fun physical and music activities, learn how to create a welcoming environment for old and young, and discuss safeguarding considerations. They will be provided with a toolkit and bag of play and music equipment, and receive ongoing support from YST and IMM staff via phone calls and visits; and each other through regular online network meetings

Stakeholders and roles

YST and IMM to identify participating settings, primary schools as source of young people to take part and care homes as source for older people to take part, London South Bank University as research

Barriers

Outcomes

It takes time to build connections between the participating settings. Staff in the settings have other priorities.

The findings highlight the potential of this approach to promote subjective well-being, alleviate stress, and foster social connections in both children and older adults. By incorporating music, movement and intergenerational practice, these programs offer a promising avenue for addressing the challenges of an ageing population and promoting healthy ageing. However, further research with larger and more diverse samples is needed to confirm and expand upon these findings

Principles for behaviour change

Tips & tricks

Other information

Source

Allow time for younger people and older people to get to know each other before starting sessions.

Ensure there is a project lead in participating settings

This project brought together two organisations with differing areas of expertise – YST re physical activity and IMM re music.

https://www.youthsporttrust.org/programmes/move-and-groove

https://www.moveandgroove.org.uk/

Programme/activity name

Intergenerational Activities and Yew Tree Nursery

Lead organisation Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership

Country England Period N/A

Objective

The Yew Tree Nursery are one of 10 settings across Somerset developing a new project that see’s their children take part in physical activity sessions with residents living in local care homes. The project is a hybrid version of the very successful ‘Golden Age Olympics’, a functional chair-based fitness project. Golden Age Olympics is already working across Somerset in residential care homes, nursing homes, dementia care homes and sheltered accommodation. The intergenerational version of the project includes the young children and allows them to take part in the activities developing their personal, physical, social and emotional skills.

Programme, activities, events

The benefits of this project are similar for both residents and children, for example the opportunity to build relationships helps to support emotional and social skills. While the physical activities are low in intensity, they still provide an excellent opportunity to develop key physical skills for both sets of participants; larger gross motor skills such as core strength and shoulder stability are both key to improving some of the fine motor skills such as finger dexterity that are key to both residents and children. During the sessions the participants take part in a number of activities such as:

• Athletics – Focusing on hand to eye coordination, number and colour recognition

• Marathon – Gross motor skills

• Gymnastics – Shoulder stability to support fine motor skills

• Orienteering – Fine motor skills, finger dexterity and sorting objects

• Team challenges – Social skills Stakeholders

Outcomes

Testimonials: “Children are full of love, happiness, energy and wonder and to be able to share this with the elderly is a truly enlightening experience for all... My best moment was seeing a lady called Dorothy who is 100 have such energy and competitiveness during activities, it’s amazing.”

“I hoped the project would support the issues the elderly may face of loneliness and lack of social interaction. Children have buckets of energy and happiness and I hoped combining these would bring a positive uplift for the elderly on a regular basis” – Chelsea Wollard, Yew Tree Nursery.

Source

https://www.sasp.co.uk/intergenerational

Programme/activity name Hopp la Foundation/Spaces for physical activity for all generations

Lead organisation

Department of Sport, Physical Activity and Health, University of Basel

Country Switzerland

Period N/A

Objective

1) to increase physical activity; 2) to maintain and increase strength and balance; 3) To prevent the risk of falling; 4) promote a sustainable encouragement of physical and sports activity for people over 50;

5) intergenerational meetings through physical activity.

Programme, activities, events

Physical activities shared with children:

Intergenerational Health and Physical Activity Promotion; Moments of shared pleasure!

Intergenerational Implementation (train not separately, but together) – Prevention programs: a combined training of force and coordination of significant preventive effects.

Organising spaces encouraging physical activities

Organising physical intergenerational activities: “Generations in Motion” project in Basel: Introduce intergenerational play and physical activity areas, as well as accompanying programs (arouse the enthusiasm of the inhabitants of the districts, involve the actors concerned): Physical Activity Games (Exciting New Gear); “Gaming machines” – children use them with adults, interactive water games -joint experimentations.

Stakeholders and roles

Barriers

Basel municipality; Hopp la Foundation

1) Lack of physical activity has become a characteristic of the human species of all ages; 2) Activities are fully optional; 3) We are rarely able to benefit children ((and their parents) who are not inclined to move; 4) conflicts of use in the public space (playgrounds for kids with the lack of spaces for seniors)

Outcomes

Psychological, social and cognitive aspects:

• Improved social skills, self-esteem, language skills, increased quality of life, increased happiness level, combined drive of strength and balance, moments of shared pleasure,

• Reduced risk of falling among the elderly (65-97-year) by 15 to 50% thanks to strength training and balance; increased autonomy of those concerned), social added value/positive influence on relations between generations.

Economic aspects: The costs of healthcare can be reduced (less overweight, diabetes, depression, falls, etc. -Switzerland will have the fittest population in the world and a society with (long-term) significant savings in health.

Principles for behaviour change

Children’s physical activity significantly depends on available green spaces, traffic intensity and proximity to sports clubs;

• Easy access (physical activities in the public space, no need to be a member, etc.);

• Link physical activity to key seniors’ centers of interest: nature, cultural activities, children’s company.

Tips & tricks

Recommendations to encourage physical activity in public and private spaces:

• Develop play places;

• Encourage physical activity in school and recreation; Unique in the world: the J+S program, which encourages physical activity from the age of 5.

Other information

https://vimeo.com/153491038?from=outro-embed

Source http://www.hopp-la.ch

Programme/activity name Intergenerational project Iraurgi Ikastastetxea School and San Martín retirement home

Lead organisation

Iraurgi Ikastastetxea School

Country Spain

Period

Objective

2019-2020

1. Promote healthy habits in both children and the elderly

2. Promote more intergenerational connection

3. Recognize activities beneficial to older people at the local level Program, activities, events

• A series of different activities take place during the school year within the school, in the old people’s residence and in the local area.

• Elderly people and pupils of various ages take part in these activities.

• Recruitment occurs through the school and the residence, but the organisation is carried out by the school.

Stakeholders and roles

Educational institutions: register volunteers to organise and participate in activities, both pupils and teachers, and carry out the activities.

Residence: gather and register volunteers.

City Council: provides spaces where activities can take place.

Barriers

Willingness by the residence and school management.

Time available during the school year to carry out the activities – most take place from February to the end of the school year.

Outcomes

Principles for behaviour change

It is a very interesting project, in which both pupils and residents benefit personally, socially, emotionally and physically.

Focusing the project as a set of activities that takes place over several weeks and combines activities at school, at the residence for the elderly and leads to participation in a municipal sporting event, produces a progressive change in the habits of both children and adults.

Tips & tricks

Other information

Making primary school students responsible and empowering them through an awareness-raising and training phase is key to active participation.

N/A

Source DES internal case study – good practice 2019/2020

Programme/activity name

Lead organisation

Running as a family

C.D. Sporting Segovia

Country Spain

Period

Objective

2014 – present

1. Promoting sport for all, at all ages.

2.Having fun as a family while physically active.

3. Promoting healthy habits in the family.

Programme, activities, events

This is a race in which children and teenagers have to run with members of another generation of their own family (children with parents or grandparents) and reach the finish line holding hands. It is organised by a club, but the recruitment is done through participating schools.

Stakeholders and roles

Organising club: is in charge of all the event’s administration, attracting collaborators and funding, registration, raffles, etc.

City Hall: facilitates the environment, which is always a busy city park, and security forces.

Educational institutions: collaborate in the dissemination and training of the competing pairs.

Barriers

Comparison of ages and quality of the competitors (it is not the same to run with a father than with a grandfather and it is not the same to run with amateurs than with professionals). With each edition, this fact has been corrected and the objective of participation has been prioritized over competition with which it was initially born.

Another major barrier was the registration fee, which was gradually reduced until it disappeared.

Outcomes

The results are excellent, especially in the last editions where it has become a real party to welcome the beginning of the school sport campaigns and above all to promote coexistence.

Principles for behaviour change

Sport without excessively demanding challenges strengthens the bond between generations around an activity. Combining physical activity with a celebration turns the event into a playful, fun, and socially connected moment that remains in the memory of the participants.

Tips & tricks

The key is the union between the athletic club, schools and city hall for the diffusion. Organising the event continuously, every year, even with editions with less participation, is the most important pillar to consolidate the event.

Other information

https://www.imdsg.es/xiii-edicion-correr-en-familia/

Source https://sportingsegovia.blogspot.com/p/correr-en-familia_16.html

Programme/activity name

Intergenerational day of physical and healthy activities

Lead organisation Segovia City Council

Country Spain

Period 2019

Objective

1. Bring generations together through play.

2. Share learning and games between generations in a fun and enriching way.

3. Promote health, personal autonomy, psychomotor skills and personal relationships through intergenerational collaboration.

4. Serve as a vehicle for exchange of resources and learning between older and younger generations to achieve individual and social benefits.

5. Encourage interpersonal communication, the development of social and cognitive skills and the establishment of personal relationships and networks.

Programme, activities, events

Participants were groups of pupils from various primary schools, students from the UVA University who supervised the activity and senior citizens belonging to the families of the pupils themselves, covering the whole age range (children – adults – senior citizens).

The City Council proposed these intergenerational days to raise awareness and promote the Active and Healthy Parks Program, mainly aimed at the interconnection between generations, through physical activity.

In this case, there were two main groups of physical activity, which were local sports and a small sports orienteering test.

The groups were formed through the participating schools, which were responsible for contacting the families of the participating groups of pupils so that they could register family members for the day.

Stakeholders and roles

Grandparents-students, for the implementation of intergenerational activities. UVA students from the Faculty of Education (Physical Education) for the control, development and monitoring of the activities.

Barriers

The barriers are strictly intergenerational, which are overcome as soon as they are put into dialogue in a universal, interactive and interrelated language: play and physical activity.

Outcomes

Older people have a lot to contribute to the training of young people and they, in turn, act as motivators and companions. In one type of activity, the older people contribute more with their experience and knowledge, and in the other, the children contribute more by guiding and facilitating the activity.

Principles for behaviour change

Tips & tricks

The empowerment of young and old towards the development of the activity as well as the opportunity for each and every one of the participants to be protagonists in different moments

Participation of different stakeholders around an activity that provides benefits for its objectives and, at the same time, has a high impact on society.

Other information

Source

N/A

http://aneja.magix.net/20182019/otros/intergeneracional/intergeneracional.htm

Programme/activity name

Lead organisation

Living spaces, weaving networks

Natur del Siglo XXI

Country Spain

Period 2015 – present

Objective

To use a working tool in the educational institution that helps to improve the participation and commitment of children, teachers and families in the problems that affect their immediate environment and to create community links with different members of society, in this case our elders.

To help the elderly to feel useful and thus improve their health and quality of life.

Programme, activities, events

The program of activities requires setting up a school or community garden for: Getting started in farming, biotic and abiotic factors, improve the curricular content and environmental values transmitted in school, develop curricular materials and didactic units around the theme of the vegetable garden, encourage attitudes related to the acquisition of values, which motivate us and help us to be sensitive to sustainability, acquire techniques that favour cooperative and interdisciplinary work in decision-making and problem-solving related to sustainability, and value personal and group effort and perseverance as a means of achieving the proposed objectives. In order to recruit the groups, we work with the neighbourhood and municipal senior citizens’ centres, primary and secondary schools, the administration and the association of mothers and fathers of students (AMPA).

Stakeholders and roles

The program involves the elderly, children and young people. Stakeholders are:

- Educational institution

- Retirement homes, old people’s homes

- Youth centres

- Association of mothers and fathers of students (AMPA)

- Local government

- Neighbourhood organisations, associations

- Small producers and vendors in the neighbourhood

Barriers

• Opposition from the school to carry out this type of activity;

• Opposition by the school to bringing the school or facilities closer to the neighbourhood;

• Not finding older volunteers willing to participate in this type of activity;

• Problems with organising the whole program;

• Problems with budget line expenditure;

• Problems with garden location and space;

• Opening hour management problems.

Outcomes

The service-learning methodology is used, a methodology aimed at the active participation and social mobilisation of the population, combining experience and service to the community. The aim is to train individuals committed to learning to participate and learn to live together and use their environment.

This type of methodology aims to generate participatory and supportive learning in the community, offering students the opportunity to come into contact with reality and apply the knowledge they learn in the classroom. At the same time, the elders share experiences and take part in the learning process.

The components in this type of methodology are as follows:

• Protagonism of the voice of the pupil and of the adult;

• Attention to a real need arising from the community;

• Connection to learning objectives;

• Transfer of learning;

• Implementation of a service project;

• Reflection;

• Solidarity service to the community.

Principles for behaviour change

Tips & tricks

Other information

The service-learning methodology is used, a methodology aimed at the active participation and social mobilisation of the population, combining experience and service to the community.

Strong leadership from an organisation with experience and a good number of external volunteers to mobilize and lead the activities.

https://www.naturdelsigloxxi.com/acciones/

Source https://www.naturdelsigloxxi.com

Programme/activity name Intergenerational courtyards

Lead organisation N/A

Country Spain

Period N/A

Objective

• Introduce children to traditional games;

• Strengthen the bonds of union between the inhabitants of a village, a neighbourhood, a community;

• Increase social participation;

• Bring the school closer to the community;

• Promote community, intergenerational and intercultural actions that favour the knowledge of the population;

• Promote active lifestyles;

• Promote the emotional state of the participants.

Programme, activities, events

Program developed in different educational institutions in a neighbourhood, each day a group of older volunteers went to an educational centre and, taking advantage of the break, taught the children what they played when they were their age:

Frog game

Chito game

Game of badges

Balloon games

Tag games

Dodgeball games

Stakeholders and roles The parties concerned are:

• Educational institutional,

• Students,

• Senior citizen centres, retirement homes,

• Volunteers.

Barriers

• Opposition from the school to carry out this type of activity;

• Opposition by the educational institution to open its facilities for activities;

• Not finding older volunteers willing to participate in this type of activity.

Outcomes

The impact of these activities is great, on the one hand it improves the lives of all the people involved.

By putting young people in the process of personal growth in contact with older people, it awakens very important values, they give and receive.

It helps older people to feel better physically and mentally and to retain their sense of usefulness.

Principles for behaviour change

Tips & tricks

Other information

Source

behaviours changes come as the same actions with renewed activities are planned every year during the same period of the school year.

Strong leadership from an organisation with experience and a good number of external volunteers to mobilize and lead the activities.

https://www.naturdelsigloxxi.com/acciones/

https://www.naturdelsigloxxi.com

Programme/activity name Program for intergenerational coexistence

Lead organisation

La Minería Retirement Home

Country Spain

Period N/A

Objective

• Offset negative impacts experienced by elderly people (e.g. loneliness) arising from changing societal norms, e.g. changes in family relations and caregiving in the last few decades;

• Promote “active ageing”;

• Make elderly people transmitters of key knowledge and values for new generations increase usefulness;

• Create respect, dignity and closeness towards different stages of life;

• Increase social participation;

• Improve social, family and personal relations.

Programme, activities, events

There are two projects within the program: Cultural Exchange Project – the possibility to exchange experiences, anecdotes and knowledge between elderly people and children of different ages through activities and workshops.

Coexistence Project – elderly people living in the retirement home offer their home as a space to children, promoting solidarity between different generations, improving self-esteem, personal and social development, and overall quality of life.

2 workshops per day of approximately 90 mins in accordance with the retirement home’s schedule. Coexistence experience occurs once per month over 3-4 days. Sessions will include a presentation and welcome to the groups, activities with objectives and a goodbye to each member.

Activities can include: bingo, drawing, crosswords, horticulture, aquatic therapy etc. Coordination needed within retirement home (social workers, entertainers etc) and educational institution.

Stakeholders and roles

The parties concerned are:

Educational institutions and students

Retirement home residents/senior citizens

Family members

Volunteers

Barriers

Personal: attitudes, abilities, motivations and conduct

Lack of participation from stereotypes or beliefs (must consider individual and group dimensions)

Spatial distribution of services/activities

Resources (material, human and technological)

Outcomes

Principles for behaviour change

Tips & tricks

Elderly people contribute experience, knowledge, maturity and a new perspective, helping them to feel better physically, mentally and emotionally, and enabling them to retain their sense of usefulness.

Keeping the focus on bringing generations together through all kinds of activities is what creates a sense of belonging. The members, through the experience of fun and enrichment, want to continue to participate and change their habits.

Maintaining activities that are customary for each within the framework of the programme but inviting the other generational group to participate means that there is always a leading group and another group that is invited and dragged to participate. Mixing introductory activities, games, sports and culture creates an interesting mix that allows for relaxation, knowledge and activation in equal measure.

Other information

Source

N/A

https://www.fundacionpilares.org/modeloyambiente/docs/catalogoBBPP/ Anexos/BP40_LaMINERIA_Anexo.pdf

Programme/activity name Muévete conmigo (Move with me)

Lead organisation

University of León

Country Spain

Period N/A

Objective

• Promote health habits related to physical activity through community engagement;

• Spend one hour a day (or 3 hours a week minimum) being physically active to improve individual and collective health;

• Combat the sedentarism crisis;

• Improve social, family and personal relations.

Programme, activities, events

The program consists of a website (Muevete Conmigo) through which people can register (like a “pledge”) to undertake 3 hours of physical activity a week with a person in their network who they have identified as inactive, overweight or obese but who wants to change their lifestyle.

The website encourages the pair to plan 3 hours of activity a week to carry out together during which they must collect evidence. At the end of the program, they submit a diary of evidence, complete a questionnaire and receive a certificate of participation.

Schools can also get involved, in which case teachers are the promoters of the program who will register their interest. Students and teachers can get involved in recruiting a physical activity “buddy”. These also receive recognition through a diploma.

It is recommended to “recruit” elderly people for this accompanied activity program to improve their physical, emotional state and social relations. People wanting to undergo the challenge but who don’t have a willing elderly person to join them should ask social services in the area to identify participants.

Stakeholders and roles

University of Leon (organiser)

Community associations (partners/sponsors)

Local council (partners/sponsors)

Educational institutions

Senior citizens

Barriers

Personal: attitudes, abilities, motivations and conduct Spatial distribution of services/activities

Difficulty finding willing participants

Sustainability and retention after the month is up.

Outcomes

Personal satisfaction of having helped somebody else be more physically active in just one month – “gifting health”.

Introduction to physical activities to elderly people and creation of new social connections – expected increase in activity and reduction in loneliness.

Principles for behaviour change

Tips & tricks

Systematising PA, every week, several times and the focus of the activity as a service to the society for young people, and as a social relationship opportunity for the seniors are the principles to highlight.

• Close guidance from the Physical Education department (or teachers from the teaching team who want to embark on this proposal), and the motivation generated in the students to actively participate in it.

• The prior planning: Establish a timeline with the start and end of the proposal. Explanation of the proposal to pupils, teachers and families. The aim is to motivate and encourage the whole educational community to participate. In this explanation, it is essential to identify the objective for our pupils: “to accompany, encourage and recommend to a sedentary person the basic actions that any person who does PA on a regular basis does on a daily basis: warm-up, a moderate activity appropriate to the conditions of the participant and a return to calm”.

Other information

Source

N/A

http://mueveteconmigo.unileon.es/

Programme/activity name Shared Exercise

Lead organisation Madrid City Council (Madrid Salud)

Country Spain

Period 2007 – 2019

Objective

Programme, activities, events

Promoting healthy lifestyles through intergenerational sport activities; to facilitate communication among both generations; to achieve individual and social benefits for both.

“Shared Exercise” is an initiative of the Madrid City Council organised within the action plan ‘promoting friendly cities with the elderly’. The initiative aims to promote intergenerational solidarity around the practice of physical exercise. “Shared Exercise” events are organised in different city districts bringing together old and young people. The events encompass different sports and activities are led by a physical education instructor.

Stakeholders and roles Madrid City Council (Madrid Salud)

Barriers N/A

Outcomes

Raised awareness of healthy habits in a context of obesity prevention among children and adolescents; the activities contributed to elderly people’s feeling more integrated and connected with the rest of society, changed misconceptions about age in younger participants. The events are low-cost with many benefits for its participants and its further expansion to other City districts in the future recommended.

Principles for behaviour change

Tips & tricks

Source

https://extranet.who.int/agefriendlyworld/afp/encuentrosintergeneracionales-de-ejercicio-compartido/

https://www.madrid.es/portales/munimadrid/es/Inicio/Mayores/ Intergeneracional

Programme/activity name Walking Football

Lead organisation

Sport England and Age UK

Country United Kingdom

Period 2021 – 2023

Objective Reach over 1,000 older people through walking football groups in communities across England; inclusive way of re-introducing physical activity to women and men in later life; -create a supportive and sociable environment – keep mind and body active whilst enjoying the sportsmanship and a sense of belonging; -provide older people the opportunity to get out and increase their levels of activity; reach older people living in more deprived areas of the country and those living with long-term health conditions.

Programme, activities, events Walking Football is a fun, friendly and safe way of engaging in physical activity for both men and women in later life. It’s open to all, regardless of age and PA level. It’s great for the mind as well as the body and is a sociable sport, giving everyone involved the chance to make new friends and enjoy being part of a team. Many people give up football in their 30s-40s due to the intensity of the game, but through walking football it’s a great way to keep playing, and supporting a positive healthy lifestyle as we age. That’s the beauty of this slower paced version, its inclusive to anyone who wants to try it.

Stakeholders and roles Age UK; The Football Association (The FA); Sport England.

Barriers

Mainly focused on elderly, might be hard to involve younger groups and balance different physical levels; since the pandemic older people’s activity levels have declined, with the proportion of people aged 55-74 who are active falling from 63% to 56%, and the proportion of people aged 75+ who are active declining from 42% to 35%.

Outcomes

Outcomes: Attracting a new wave of players. The more players, the stronger those groups become and demand for more teams. They also welcome interest from local businesses and organisations who are interested in supporting the event through sponsorship or by encouraging their staff to enter a team as part of workplace wellbeing

Principles for behaviour change

N/A

Tips & tricks N/A

Other information

https://www.ageuk.org.uk/latest-press/articles/2021/new-walking-footballprogramme/

https://www.ageuk.org.uk/services/in-your-area/walking-football/

Source

https://www.ageuk.org.uk/latest-press/articles/2021/new-walking-footballprogramme/

https://www.ageuk.org.uk/services/in-your-area/walking-football/

Programme/activity name Global Intergenerational Week; Intergenerational Mix and Mingle event; Intergenerational Photo Diary challenge

Lead organisation Generations Working Together

Country United Kingdom (+11 other countries)

Period N/A

Objective

1) inspire individuals, groups, organisations, local/national government, and NGOs to fully embrace intergenerational practice, connecting people of different generations in intentional, mutually beneficial activities; to share and discuss, on a global platform, creative and effective new ways of connecting generations. 2) Coordinate a global conversation around intergenerational practice and connection 3) Share and showcase current intergenerational projects; Influence key stakeholders to progress the intergenerational agenda; Signpost people, provide access to resources and create a central space to share ideas and practice.

Programme, activities, events Parliament debates, webinars, graphics, signposting, social media reach

Stakeholders and roles Generations Working Together, Linking Generations Northern Ireland, Bridging the Generations, and The Beth Johnson Foundation.

Barriers The campaign will be easier to follow, generating greater public engagement, greater press attention/awareness and hopefully, greater funding opportunities, need more key stakeholder engagement from policymakers and politicians.

Outcomes

Celebrating solidarity between different age groups, bringing joy to millions of peoples’ lives.

Tips & tricks

Other information

https://vimeo.com/798437735?embedded=true&source=vimeo_ logo&owner=57719302

https://generationsworkingtogether.org/downloads/633fdfed57e8e-giwreport-2022.pdf

Source

https://generationsworkingtogether.org/

Programme/activity name Sport pour tous (“Sport for all”)

Lead organisation N/A

Country France

Period June 2019

Objective

Encouraging increased participation in sport by young and old people; inspire children’s civic engagement by providing a space for them to design and run projects; bring different generations together to demonstrate that sport is enjoyable and accessible for all.

Programme, activities, events

Stakeholders and roles

Barriers

Intergenerational sports meeting, workshops around activities such as basketball, climbing, archery and table tennis.

Ville de Roubaix Municipal Council

A number of participants dropped out at the last minute, though the Social Centers brought along additional spare players. It was important to ensure that the replacements were in the same age to avoid certain generations dominating proceedings. Despite the desire of organisers and attendees to repeat the event, however, there is no evidence.

70 highly motivated participants joined the events from age 10 until 79. Most participants wanted to join a second event. Principles

Outcomes

Source

https://www.roubaixxl.fr/sport-pour-tous-des-olympiadesintergenerationnelles-sensationnelles/

Programme/activity name TOY Project – Together Old and Young

Lead organisation

ICDI – International Child Development Initiative

Country The Netherlands

Period 2012 – 2014

Objective N/A

Programme, activities, events

Seniors and children together:

• The 5 senses at play; recreational activities: games with balloons, handling bread dough, painting with tempera, gardening, music and other activities related to the discovery (and re-discovery) of the five senses. The action ended with a final party with an intergenerational snack that brought together children, the elderly, parents and family members.

• Experimental Multigenerational Summer Center “Of Signs and Dreams”: the Hotel Adda residential facility for the elderly and the summer centre was open from 1 July to 8 August. The summer centre welcomed a total of 57 children aged between 4 and 9 (with a maximum of 30 children per week). The children were daily involved in intergenerational activities with the elderly guests of Hotel Adda (24 were the most active and constant participants). Gardening, painting, sewing and creative recycling activities, board games and water games, photography workshops, intergenerational lunches and snacks were proposed.

Stakeholders and roles

Dublin Institute of Technology (Ireland), Educational Research Institute (Slovenia), Lunaria (Italy), Comenius Foundation (Poland), University of Leiden (Spain), Municipality of Leiden (Spain), University of Aveiro (Portugal), Retesalute Special Agency (Italy)

Associated partners: Eurochild (Belgium), VBJK – Center for Innovation in Early Years (Belgium)

Barriers

Outcomes

N/A

According to participants’ stories, intergenerational work made an impact on their leadership and management skills, improved relationships with member of the wider communities. Read the stories here: http://www.toyproject.net/ wp-content/uploads/2016/03/storiesandvideos.pdf

Other information

http://retesalute.net/images/TOY/presentazione%20Alina%20Grieco_ convegno%20TOY%20Merate.pdf

http://www.toyproject.net/#!toy-in-action/cj41

Source http://www.toyproject.net/

Programme/activity name Moving Generations

Lead organisation Vienna Health Promotion (WiG)

Country Austria Period Sept 2014 – Dec 2016

Objective To improve physical and mental well-being among young and old people by bringing these groups together in moto-pedagogical exercises, and reduce social exclusion.

Programme, activities, events Target group: children between three and six years of age, and senior citizens living in nursing homes.

Stakeholders and roles University of Vienna (Centre for medical statistics informatics and intelligent systems medical); Ferdinand Porsche (FernFH – Distance-Learning University of Applied Sciences)

Barriers N/A

Outcomes Participants become more active, communicative, and treat each other equally, regardless of age. Youngsters help old people with the physical tasks, while older people came up with creative solutions to overcome physical or mental challenges proposed by the different exercises.

Young and old people interacted together and learned from one another and began understanding each other better. An increased intergenerational empathy and social cohesion, seniors reported tangible health improvements from exercising more.

Source

https://cemsiis.meduniwien.ac.at/or/wf/projekte/abgeschlossene-projekte/ moving-generations/#top

Programme/activity name Seniors in Action

Lead organisation

Polish-American Freedom Foundation (via Seniors in Action)

Country Poland

Period 2020

Objective

1. Promoting healthy lifestyles through intergenerational sport activities

2. Increasing sport participation through intergenerational competitions to promote intergenerational learning

Programme, activities, events

Seniors took part in a series of dance workshops, ballroom dances, regional dances from across the world, as well as improvised and experimental forms of dance to encourage experimenting with movement and music. Participants were working towards specific performances in addition to the regular meetings, culminating in “Senioriada”, an outdoor event in Tychy, where they present their new skills. They also put on a number of dance performances in the local community, including in local schools and community centres to spread joy to those who might be struggling in life.

Stakeholders and roles

Dance Emergency was organised and led by an intergenerational partnership consisting of an instructor aged over 60, alongside a younger instructor aged under 35.

Barriers N/A

Outcomes

Principles for behaviour change

Seniors can be leaders and creators of activities as well as participants in activities directed towards them.

Source

https://seniorzywakcji.pl/projekty/pogotowie-taneczne/

Programme/activity name International intergenerational competitions

Lead organisation

Municipality of Vila Nova de Cerveira

Country Portugal

Period 2018-2020

Objective

To promote grassroots sport in the elderly and vulnerable groups, and to develop, identify, promote and share good practices; to inspire continuous practice of physical exercise in the elderly population and regular training is offered local senior citizens throughout the year; to understand the motivational factors behind this continuous practice as well as assess the impact of the “intergenerational Olympics” on the participants’ physical and mental health by carrying out a study based on the activity.

Programme, activities, events

15 Intergenerational Olympics events have been organised in five different countries. “Olympics 4 All” is an intergenerational sport competition which seeks to promote grassroots sport in elderly and vulnerable groups, alongside developing and promoting good practice. The competition was held across five European countries (Bulgaria, Hungary, Italy, Portugal and Spain) which are identified as having both ageing populations and low participation rates in sport.

Stakeholders and roles

Five European countries and six organisations: Municipality of Vila Nova de Cerveira (Portugal), Municipality of Cesena (Italy), Viana do Castelo Polytechnic Institute (Portugal), University of Thessaly (Greece), Aksakovo Municipality (Bulgaria) and Zoldpont Association (Hungary)

Source

http://www.olympics4all.eu/

Programme/activity name Generation Games

Lead organisation

International Generation Games Association

Country Switzerland

Period From 2012 onwards

Objective Generations sporting together, people of all ages having a good time participating in several sports and activities, in a relaxing, non-competitive atmosphere. Learning from each other, inspiring one another. Passing on the passion for sport.

The Generation Games is multi-sports, multi-generations, multi-purpose. The event gives room to social and educational topics, stimulating a healthy lifestyle, strengthening intergenerational solidarity. With a focus on positive community impact and respect for everyone’s role. With valuable legacies for future generations around the world. 1. intergenerational collaboration (what can you learn from each other?); 2. inclusive approach (involve all talents during the preparations of the event); 3. healthy and active lifestyle for people of all ages; 4. cross-border collaboration (cities share the experiences of their edition with others).

The overall objective: positive community impact.

Programme, activities, events

The Generation Games is an inclusive, intergenerational sport event for people of all ages. Everyone in the community can take part, in a pleasant and non-competitive atmosphere. The creative concept, including step-bystep guidelines, is available at no cost, a do-it-yourself event. Many cities around the world have organised an edition.

Stakeholders and roles

Sports federations, NGOs, Universities, athletes, companies and many others are closely involved. + any can join the campaign; Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences

Barriers N/A

Outcomes

Generations brought together via sport and play; valuable interaction is stimulated. It works as a two-way street: (grand)parents learn from their (grand)children and vice versa.

Principles for behaviour change N/A

Tips & tricks N/A

Other information

Source

https://youtu.be/_2m_VGlJs38

https://www.generationgames.com/

Programme/activity name Sport for All Movement

“Mom, Dad and Me-Grandma, Grandfather and Grandchild”

Lead organisation

Balkankar Record

Plovdiv with the support of the Municipality of Plovdiv

Country Bulgaria

Period

From 1989 onwards

Objective Target: All age groups

The movement targets all the age groups with a focus on intergenerational interactions through sport for all. For 34 years, more than 2 million participants have taken part in the sports holidays. The movement has become a springboard for young people to professional sports. “Sports for all” has many facilitators.

Programme, activities, events

The marathon is organised on different dates (sometimes on the occasion of the national holidays) in different locations around the city of Plovdiv.

The disciplines are: running for all age groups – from kindergarten to the oldest participants. The cross is without registration in advance. Those wishing to take part stand at the start, take a sports number and join the race.

Stakeholders and roles “Balkankar Record”

Plovdiv is responsible for the organisation of the initiative. Plovdiv Municipality supports the activities

Barriers

Outcomes

No barriers observed

The initiative allows any participant of different age to join – no specific requirements are set. Any participant joins depending on their abilities and interest.

Principles for behaviour change

Tips & tricks

Other information

Source

Simple, engaging, non-structured.

At the end of the race/marathon the best performing participants are awarded at the ceremony.

N/A

https://www.facebook.com/sportzavsichkiplovdiv?locale=bg_BG

Programme/activity name Kula – sport for all

Lead organisation

Sports club “Kula – sport for all” and Partners:

• Kula Municipality

• Sports clubs for elderly people

• Sports clubs in Serbia and Romania

Country Bulgaria Period

From 2018 onwards

Objective 50+

Encouraging the active lifestyle of the elderly and independence.

Programme, activities, events

Sports tournaments started 4 years ago. They are held annually, mostly outdoors. Activities for the elderly are held usually twice a week in a local stadium, gym, tennis court, swimming pool, seminar room free of charge.

Main organisers of the tournaments are the municipalities from the Republic of Bulgaria and the Republic of Serbia (Union of the disabled and the Union of the Blind people). The activities of the club are actively supported by the Kula Municipality with the provision of financial means and other support.

Stakeholders and roles

Sports club “Kula – sport for all” was created by the elderly with the idea of supporting the sports and physical activity of the elderly in Kula (Vidin Municipality). The main activities of the club include:

• Organising and conducting active sports events for adults, incl. sports tournaments in the country and abroad (Serbia/Romania);

• Organising and holding seminars;

• Organisation and conduct of balneotherapy procedures for the elderly;

• Organisation and holding of competitions, people in the water, recreation of traditional customs and exchange of experience with pensioner clubs from Serbia, Romania etc.

Barriers No barriers observed

Outcomes

The spirit, motor activity and general culture of the elderly improve significantly after participating in sports and other events organised by the association. Through sports, people get away from their problems and feel active members of society.

Principles for behaviour change

Tips & tricks

Diversity of the activities, consistency of the activities, specific programme for the integration of the elderly.

Tournaments make us laugh our hearts out.

A person just has fun at heart, and that’s the most important thing, because it’s therapy for our health.

Other information

N/A

Source http://obshtina-kula.com

Programme/activity name Olympic Games for Everyone

Lead organisation

Aksakovo Municipality and Partners:

• Football sport club

• Children’s club on martial arts

• Social Integration Center – Aksakovo

• Social Integration Center – region Vladislavovo, Varna

Country Bulgaria

Period

From 2018 onwards

Objective 60+

The project aims to promote an active lifestyle among people over the age of 60.

Programme, activities, events

The first Olympic Games were held in September 2018 and included competitions in the following sports: athletics; swimming; Beach volleyball; basketball; football. More than 100 participants take part in the Olympiad. Within the framework of Aksakovo Days in August 2019, the Olympic Games for All were held for the second time. More than 60 elderly people take part in the second Olympiad. The oldest participant awarded is 83 years-old. The Olympics are held outdoors at the stadium in the city of Aksakovo and on the sports grounds in the city. During the first Olympics, the Kamchia Sports Complex provided the swimming pool for use. Preparation for the Olympics is through physical activity training. Twice a week, the elderly do exercises. Two months before the Olympics, the preparations start, mainly training the sports disciplines in which there will be competitions.

Stakeholders and roles

The initiative “Olympic Games for Everyone” was launched within the framework of the project “Common sports – intergenerational competition as a motivation for sports and healthy lifestyle of senior citizens”, financed by the European program ERASMUS+ Sport, where the Municipality of Aksakovo is a partner of the Portuguese municipality of Vila Nova de Cerveira. The project aims to promote an active lifestyle among people over the age of 60, motivating them to practise sports activities.

101 competitors between the ages of 60 and 82 took part in the first Olympiad, and 65 elderly people between the ages of 60 and 83 took part in the second.

Barriers Sustainability and finance

Outcomes

In surveys conducted among project participants, social inclusion and opportunities for elderly people to gather and communicate are indicated as added value.

Principles for behaviour change

Tips & tricks

Other information

Specific activities for the elderly, targeted activities, competitive tournament to experience the same atmosphere and emotions.

Weekly training is a good way not only to maintain the physical activity of the elderly, but also to prevent social isolation in retirement age.

N/A

Source https://aksakovo.bg/

Programme/activity name Take me to the village

Lead organisation

Municipality of Gabrovo and Partners:

Local municipalities / community centres

Country Bulgaria

Period

Objective

From 2012 onwards

Children and young people up to 29 years old, elderly people from villages

The main goal of “Take me to the village” is to get to know, preserve and popularise the Bulgarian living cultural heritage – traditions, customs, folklore, crafts and values, by passing on knowledge and experience from the elderly to the younger generation, in an environment authentic to Bulgarian culture. The initiative promotes communication, helps get to know each other between generations and stimulates tolerance, understanding, interaction and dialogue between them. Forms and models adequate to the local conditions are created for the preservation and revitalization of cultural heritage, based on voluntary participation and partnership between young people and elderly residents of the villages.

Programme, activities, events

As of 2020, “Take Me to the Village” is already implemented in five directions:

• “Take Me to the Village” for young people aged 15-29 from all over the country and from Bulgarian communities abroad;

• “Take me to the village – Junior” for children aged 9-14 from all over the country and from Bulgarian communities abroad;

• “Take me to the village” day camp for children aged 9-14 from Gabrovo;

• Academy “Take me to the village” for young people aged 15-29 from all over the country and from Bulgarian communities abroad;

• Youth exchange with participants from foreign cities partnering for the city of Gabrovo. Elderly people participating in “Take me to the village” host one or more youth / children in their houses, according to their accommodation possibilities. The “rental” grandparents commit to providing a place to sleep and feeding their “borrowed grandchildren” within 7 days. At the same time, they have to show them and actively involve them in their daily activities – caring for animals, preparing winter food, working in the garden or in the field, cooking and others. The participation of the elderly is completely voluntary and free of charge. Both young people and grandparents “for rent” sign a Code of Ethics.

Stakeholders and roles

The initiative of the Municipality of Gabrovo “Take me to the village” is unique for Bulgaria. It is related to the village and the adults people – grandparents “for rent” accept children and young people – “borrowed grandchildren” who live in within a week in their homes and help with daily household chores. And the elderly teaches them Bulgarian traditions and customs preserved for generations

Barriers N/A

Outcomes

The “Take Me to the Village” initiative is an annual event. By 2019, a total of 16 villages had joined, including three which are not in Gabrovo municipality; a total of 393 young people visited the village, and over 1,000 elderly people participated. Nearly 400 children and young people from all over the country have had the opportunity to become “borrowed grandchildren”. For a large part of them, this is their first contact with the village and the traditional rural way of life. Together with their “rented” grandparents, they give a new meaning to the idea of continuity between generations and acquire a new sensitivity to the topic of “tolerance in communication with representatives of the older generation”.

Principles for behaviour change

Tips & tricks

Intergenerational dialogue, traditions

The biggest benefit for adults from their participation in “Take me to the village” is emotional. The presence and communication with young people is priceless for them. Very often these contacts continue even after the end of the initiative – the “borrowed grandchildren” write letters, send cards and photos of their “rental” grandparents, hear each other on the phone, dictate cooking recipes to each other.

Other information

Source

N/A

https://www.priemimenaselo.eu/

Programme/activity name

Lead organisation

National strategy for active life of the elderly in Bulgaria (2019 – 2030)

Ministry of Labor and Social Policy

Country Bulgaria

Period

Objective

2019 – 2030

Target group 1: Internal target group includes structures (see the stakeholders involved)

Target group 2: External target group – people over 55 years of age and the general public

The Bulgarian public should be actively involved and provide support in the implementation of the measures according to the relevant priorities. This group consists of:

People over the age of 55, including:

• specific demographic and economic groups – economically inactive persons, employed, unemployed, etc.;

• socially vulnerable groups – disadvantaged people, people with disabilities and others.;

Target group 3: Target group – mediators (NGOs, media, etc.)

The strategic goal is to create conditions for an active and dignified life for the elderly by providing equal opportunities for their full participation in the economic and social life of society.

The following priorities of the Strategy have been defined:

Priority 1: Encouraging the active life of older people in the field of employment;

Priority 2: Encouraging the active life of older people in the field of participation in society;

Priority 3: Encouraging the active life of older people in the field of independent living;

Priority 4: Creating capacity and an enabling environment for active living of the elderly at national and regional level.

Programme, activities, events

Priority 4: Creating capacity and an enabling environment for active living of the elderly at national and regional level.

Measure 1: Strengthen the capacity of the institutions, coordinating policies for the elderly

Measure 2: Strengthen the capacity of those concerned parties in respect of policies for the elderly

Measure 3: Continuously update the policies on local, regional and national level

Measure 4: Improve the attitudes towards adults’ people and communication against discrimination.

Measure 5. Improve the monitoring system and coordination.

Measure 6: Promote the strategy, communication and business promotion of national and local level to be included in measures for the active life of the elderly.

Stakeholders and roles Structures:

– Ministry of Labor and Social Policy

– Social Assistance Agency;

– Employment Agency;

– Executive Agency “Main Labor Inspectorate”;

– Ministry of Finance, incl. Municipal Finance Directorate;

– Ministry of the Interior;

– Ministry of Health;

– Regional health inspections;

– Emergency centres;

– National health insurance fund and regional health insurance funds;

– National Insurance Institute;

– Ministry of Culture – regional expert-consulting centres “Reading places”;

– Ministry of Education and Science and Center for Human Development resources (CRDP);

– National Support Unit of the Electronic Learning Platform of adults in Europe;

– Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works;

Ministry of Youth and Sports;

– District and municipal government and administrations.

Barriers

Outcomes

Resources needed to implement the program are huge, monitoring mechanisms are not clearly described.

Indicators set for the Priority 4:

A. Life expectancy of people at age 55.

B Life expectancy in good health at age 55.

C. Mental well-being

D. Use of information and communication technologies: percentage share of persons aged 55-74 who use the Internet at least once a week

E. Social connectedness: this indicator measures contacts outside the household, at least once a week.

F. Educational level of the elderly: percentage share of the elderly (55-74 years old) with higher than secondary or higher education.

Principles for behaviour change

Comprehensive policy, specific guidelines.

Tips & tricks N/A

Other information

The document is more of a declamatory nature – not clear how the implementation is put in force and monitored. Not clear also how the communication and interaction between different governmental institutions is planned.

Source

https://www.mlsp.government.bg/uploads/1/national-agiengstrategy-2019-2030.pdf

Programme/activity name Family Sport Festival

Lead organisation

Hungarian Leisure Sport Association

Country Hungary

Period September 2023

Objective

Programme, activities, events

The main goal of the festival is to provide intergenerational sport experience for the whole family through playful activities. 3 generations (or even 4!) can have fun at the same time by the colourful mix of sport opportunities.

The Family Sport Festival is the largest outdoor event of the Hungarian Leisure Sport Association (HLSA), where the participants can try ca. 100 sport activities with the help of qualified instructors and volunteers. The festival takes place every year in Budapest, participation is free of charge. Our main targets are families, but everyone is welcome to join the program! The festival concept is based on a huge “sport village” and playful stamp collection game: the participants receive a card at the entrance and they can collect stamps on it by being active at each activity spot. We award the most active participants (with the most stamps), however there is no competitive approach at all! The main goal is to provide a positive sport for all experience for everyone.

As side programs, health screening tasks and information desks on HEPA topics are also available for free.

Stakeholders and roles main stakeholders:

1. participants

2. organizing team

3. sport federations and clubs

4. sport experts, coaches

5. sponsors

6. volunteers

7. security service

8. catering service

9. maintaining service

10. media (radio, TV)

11. PR agency

12. VIP guests

Barriers

Due to the wide range of activities, this festival only works in an outdoor environment, therefore unfavourable weather is a potential risk. Financial challenge: it is shaped as a free of charge event, we need financial support from the government or from other sources (sponsors etc.).

Outcomes

Results in 2022:

1. 3384 participants

2. ca. 100 sport activities for free

3. health screening tests

summary video: Családi mozgásfesztivál 2022 – YouTube

Principles for behaviour change

Tips & tricks

Other information

Source

The festival is an attitude-shaping event aiming to showcase the joy of physical activity through playful activities for the whole family. We believe that this festival can make an impact in terms of introducing various sport opportunities for free.

N/A

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=isYxCDGtRqk

https://masport.hu/kiemelt-rendezvenyek/csaladi-mozgasfesztival/ https://www.facebook.com/CsaladiMozgasfesztival

Programme/activity name Generations Dancing

Lead organisation University of Bedfordshire

Country England Period N/A

Objective

Programme, activities, events

As well as aiming to enhance participants’ psychological well-being, Generations Dancing sought to build on the council’s priorities by developing participants’ “sense of community, social capital, and civic safety”.

11-week project: Week 1-5 involved separate 90-min sessions once a week for both the older adults and the young people. The sessions consisted of preparatory movement exercises, relationship building exercises and the chance to make introductions between the older adults and young people via video recordings. Week 6-10 consisted of 90-min sessions once a week, which brought all participants together at the University of Bedfordshire. These sessions shaped the dance component of the performance and offered opportunities for those interested to take a more documentary approach by photographing the workshops and one another. The project culminated in a performance and exhibition in the 11th week showcasing the final intergenerational performance work alongside performances by other local adult dance groups and school groups, as well as an exhibition of the photography taken by both the photographer and by the participants. Sessions were led by two community artists, a dance artist familiar with working with older people and a local photographer who has worked on multiple interdisciplinary projects within dance. In addition to the two artists, sessions were supported by a number of student interns from the University of Bedfordshire.

Stakeholders and roles

Barriers

Outcomes

Principles for behaviour change

Tips & tricks

Other information

Bedford Sheltered Housing Association; UoB Next Chapter Dance Group; University of Bedfordshire’s National Collaborative Outreach Programme

Performance anxiety, Vulnerability

Basic needs, affect, social well-being (increase)

Model of intergenerational engagement

N/A

Facilitators: Curiosity, Social engagement and relationships.

Source doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.561126

Programme/activity name Intergenerational Exercise Buddy Program

Lead organisation

Texas State University

Country United States

Period Sept 2018 – Apr 2019

Objective Structuring social support opportunities

Programme, activities, events The study participants attended 8 weekly classes of their choice between Chair Yoga and Easy Tai Chi. They are taught with modifications for accommodating different abilities. With the support of a community advisory board, the Intergenerational Exercise Program was implemented and embedded in the aforementioned Easy Tai Chi and Chair Yoga classes. The community advisory board consisted of the community centre’s Executive Director (third author), the instructor of Chair Yoga (fourth author), the instructor of Tai Chi (fifth author), and three older adult study participants.

Stakeholders and roles Community centre (Price Center)

Barriers Getting to class; Needing structured interactions outside of class

Outcomes

Self-perceived health, sense of social support, intention to continue, retention.

Having a buddy; Connecting with people; Developing a sense of community; Improvement in health and well-being.

Principles for behaviour change

Age integration theory* (When there are no longer rigid age norms to say what people can do at certain ages, people of different ages engage in the same activities)

Source

https://doi.org/10.1080/03601277.2021.1923132

Programme/activity name

Lead organisation

Intergenerational Tai Chi program

University of Washington

Country United States

Period 2010

Objective

The tai chi program focused on increasing confidence, social support and social interaction among the participants.

Programme, activities, events The researchers developed the structure of the tai chi class, determining that a weekly, 60-minute class held for eight weeks at the community gym was workable taking into account the available resources for the program. Organisers enlisted a tai chi instructor experienced in working with both older adults and youth to teach the class although she had not previously taught an intergenerational class.

Stakeholders and roles

University of Washington; non-profit community organisation; youth 8-14, seniors 60-85.

Barriers N/A

Outcomes

Principles for behaviour change

Tips & tricks

7DPAR, PACES, social engagement, physical activity

Social cognitive theory

In order to encourage the development of confidence, the tai chi instructor created an atmosphere that focused on skill building and provided informational messages and positive reinforcement (Bandura, 1997). These methods afford the youth and older adults the opportunity to learn and practice skills and to acquire a sense of mastery and competence in the skills. Emphasis is placed on skill building and fun in order to enhance enjoyment and confidence (Bandura, 1997). In order to encourage social support and interaction, the tai chi instructor paired the older adults and youth for interactive exercises or poses. A high school intern who assisted the instructor in the class provided positive reinforcement, encouraged ongoing participation in the classes, and promoted interaction and support between the two generations. These strategies were reviewed with the tai chi instructor and high school intern prior to the start of the classes.

Other information

Source

Community based participatory research

https://doi.org/10.1080/15350770.2011.544215

Programme/activity name

Lead organisation

Dance for Health

University of Pennsylvania

Country United States

Period 2012 – 2016

Objective

Dance for Health was created to specifically address social determinants of health by utilising an upstream approach and engaging with families to understand barriers to, priorities for, and interest in physical activity.

Programme, activities, events The program entailed two-hour line dancing sessions delivered by trained dance instructors in the neighbourhood recreation centre. The weekly sessions were delivered for one month in the spring and one month in the fall from 2012–2016. Nurse practitioner students mentored local high school students to assess outcomes: achievement of target heart rate, Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion, number of pedometer steps during dance session, Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale, and adiposity. Analytic methods included descriptive statistics and mixed effects models.

Stakeholders and roles The programme resulted from collaboration among an academic institution, the School District of Philadelphia, and a local school-based health centre.

Barriers

Outcomes

Principles for behaviour change

N/A

Adiposity, Heart rate, Perceived exertion, PACES (highly enjoyable).

CBPR (community based participatory research) approach

Tips & tricks Using a CBPR approach, a convenience sample of participants was recruited in partnership with community members through flyers at local schools and throughout the neighbourhood, joint presentations and demonstrations at parent events, announcements at community meetings, radio announcements, and notices in the local newspaper.

Other information

Source

N/A

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.pedn.2017.07.004

Programme/activity name

Lead organisation

Living (well through) Intergenerational Fitness and Exercise (LIFE) program

Iowa State University

Country United States

Period

Objective

2012

The long-term goal of the LIFE Program is to increase and sustain physical activity participation in rural-residing older adults.

Programme, activities, events The LIFE Program is a 24-week physical activity program for rural-residing older adults ages 60+. The 24-week program consists of an 8-week onsite, trainerled, physical activity program and a 16-week newsletter intervention. The 8-week physical activity program utilises exergaming technology (i.e., XBOX Kinect Sports™). The LIFE Program used the Microsoft Kinect™ exergaming unit and Kinect Sports™ game. The Kinect™ system detects the participant’s motion through a sensor that uses the detected motion to complete the task on screen. This was chosen because it is hands-free and more user-friendly than the previously tested Wii©. The sports included activities such as soccer, volleyball, bowling, track and field, boxing and table tennis.

Stakeholders and roles

Barriers

Outcomes

Principles for behaviour change

Tips & tricks

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach; Younger adults (ages 14-28 years) were recruited to serve as trainers; Onsite leaders

N/A

Physical activity, self-efficacy

Whole Person Wellness Model (WPWM), Transtheoretical model

The key to successful implementation is community partnerships. Providing a physical activity program for rural-residing older adults provides the opportunity for physical activity and socialisation where there otherwise are little opportunities for them. Group physical activity has the potential to increase physical activity participation and self-efficacy. Programs like the LIFE Program can help reduce the health care costs, incidence of chronic disease and disability and increase independence.

Other information

Source

http://www.extension.iastate.edu/life/ (not available anymore)

https://doi.org/10.31274/etd-180810-3976

Detailed program description available in document

Generations Uniting Through Movement (GUM)

D2.1. Research of the successful implementation of inter-generational collaboration projects has been developed in the Generations United Through Movement under the Work package 2 – Building of an European network and mapping of current resources, strategies and initiatives for intergenerational sport programmes.

WP Leading organisation: Hanze University of Applied Sciences, Groningen, NL (HUAS)

Project is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.