Strengthening generational cohesion in an ageing society

Abstract

The current demographic decline in Romania, with a fast change of the demographic structure characterised by a rapid aging of the population and increasing dependency ratios, among other structural societal changes, contribute to the fragmentation of intergenerational interactions which severely undermines the wellbeing of older adults and their relationships with younger generations. The article examines the benefits of a structured intergenerational intervention model through the evaluation of The Generations Centres Program (GCP), implemented by The Margareta of Romania Royal Foundation (MRRF) that provides support (funds, expertise) to local and regional organisations to implement various intergenerational activities within their services for vulnerable children and adolescence, in different social services settings, in majority licenced day care centres. The evaluation, grounded on a mixed-methods approach, including surveys (93 seniors, 38 organizational representatives), interviews and focus groups, as well as analysis of secondary data, provides robust evidence regarding the effectiveness of the intergenerational model in addressing the needs of vulnerable children and seniors. For seniors, volunteering fosters increased self-esteem (79% report higher life satisfaction), reduced social isolation (17% mention new social connections), and the rediscovery of personal purpose after retirement, outcomes consistent with international research on the protective effects of intergenerational engagement against loneliness and depression. For the beneficiary children, predominantly from disadvantaged families, the program contributes to improvements in both educational outcomes (academic performance, basic skills) and socio-emotional development (empathy, patience, social skills). The reciprocal nature of these benefits confirms the authenticity of the intergenerational exchange model. The evaluation demonstrates that strategically designed intergenerational activities offer effective, sustainable solutions to contemporary demographic challenges, generating measurable value for both age cohorts while fostering more inclusive and cohesive communities.