Building Capacity for Older Adult-driven, Neighbourhood Social Programs

In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, older adults face challenges in social engagement and community participation, aggravated by ageism, program cancellations and isolation. There is a growing demand for initiatives that foster social engagement, skill development, and community involvement among older adults, alongside a lack of information about how best to do so. To address this demand and build knowledge, we aim to explore the processes, impacts, and implications of creating inclusive, neighbourhood-based social programs in equitable partnership with older adults. Insights from ongoing research led by Dr. Carri Hand at the University of Western Ontario highlight inequitable access to social opportunities among older adults, self-directed ageism, and a need for affordable social programming in neighbourhoods, especially for those with mobility challenges. This literature gap and the demonstrated local need provide an ideal opportunity for the current project. Using participatory research, we aim to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as to understand the socially and historically situated experiences of older adults in two diverse neighbourhoods. The Participatory Process involves planning meetings with older adults interested in program planning and leadership, fostering their capacity to lead. The Implementation of Programs by older adult leaders aims to involve 8-20 diverse older adults for 25 weeks at 1.5 hours per session. This inclusive approach aims to address ageism and other intersecting biases (ableism, racism, classism, sexism, homophobia, and xenophobia). By conducting surveys and interviews, we will refine this innovative model, creating guidelines for similar community programs. This study strives to enhance social participation and inclusion for older adults, contributing to their overall well-being in diverse neighbourhoods.