The “At Home” Program: Students Residing with Older Adults

Abstract

“At Home” is a program, in which students reside in the homes of older adults. Three studies were designed to evaluate the program. One study was a comparative quantitative investigation that used a cross-sectional survey design aimed at assessing ageism and knowledge of ageing among students. The other two studies were qualitative studies based on Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, aimed at obtaining the perspective of the students and the older people. The main findings indicated satisfaction with the program among students and older adults as well, and the relationships often described by both sides as good and warm. The most common activities shared by the student and the older adult were watching television, eating dinner, having conversations, and going for walks. The contribution of the program for the older adults reflected in the relief of their loneliness. Among the students, the contribution reflected in familiarity with the world of older adults, the strengthening of intergenerational relationships, and the financial aid for their studies.