An Intergenerational Playgroup Program Pilot Study in South Australia: Views of Parents and Older Adults

This pilot study evaluated a South Australian intergenerational playgroup involving four older adults (83–92 years), nine parents/guardians (32–86 years) and their pre-school children/grandchildren (under 5 years). Drawing on generativity theory and contact theory, a longitudinal multiphase mixed methods design with concurrent data collection strategies captured quantitative wellbeing measures from four older adults (EQ-5D-5 L, Satisfaction with Life Scale, Flourishing Scale). Qualitative data answered research questions within a qualitative descriptive methodology using thematic analysis. A focus group was conducted with three older adults and semi-structured interviews were completed with five parents/guardians. Qualitative results showed that all groups benefitted from the playgroup program by engaging in a welcoming environment that supported opportunities for personal growth and meaningful relationships. Older adults showed improved social-psychological functioning. Findings support further intergenerational playgroups inclusive of all age groups, including the oldest old.