Abstract
Individuals living with traumatic brain injury (TBI) now have increased longevity due to advancements in healthcare and rehabilitation services. However, they may face dual stigmatization—ageism and ableism—which can restrict their social participation. Intergenerational initiatives have been shown to improve the health of older adults, support social participation, and foster more positive attitudes toward aging. This study supports the development of intergenerational initiatives addressing the unique needs of the TBI population by exploring: (1) the relevance of intergenerational initiatives for individuals aging with TBI; (2) the facilitators and barriers to planning and implementing such initiatives. Using a qualitative exploratory approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted: individuals living with TBI (n=4), intergenerational connection experts (n=3), community workers (n=3), and managers from TBI-focused organizations (n=2) in Quebec, Canada. The interview guide was co-developed and pre-tested with an action-research steering committee. Data analysis employed a mixed-methods approach based on the Framework Method, with the deductive portion relying on the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). Results reveal that intergenerational activities can be relevant for breaking social isolation and combating ableism. It revealed an agreement on barriers such as functional issues influencing intergenerational pairing and facilitators such as adapted instructions for the activity and personalized support from community workers to enable a satisfying and rewarding experience for individuals living with TBI. This research contributes valuable insights into fostering intergenerational initiatives for the TBI population, offering practical guidance to support the development of more inclusive environments and meaningful connections across generations.
Presenters
Samuel TurcotteProfessor, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Université Laval, Canada Valérie Poulin
Associate Professor, Occupational Therapy, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Quebec, Canada Emilie Raymond
Laval University Manh Hung Nguyen
Postdoctoral Fellow, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Laval University, Quebec, Canada Angéline Labbé
Laval University Ann-Frédérique Giguère
Student, Baccalauréat en Psychologie, Université Laval, Canada Mia Lapointe
Student, Master, Laval University, Quebec, Canada Megan Veilleux
Student, Baccalauréat en Psychologie, Université Laval, Quebec, Canada Pascale Simard
PhD Candidate, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Université Laval, Quebec, Canada
Details
Presentation Type
Theme
Social and Cultural Perspectives on Aging
KEYWORDS
Health, Inclusivity, Intergenerational Relationships, Traumatic brain injury, Social participation, Social
