Reciprocity in intergenerational exchange: The impact on seniors

Abstract

This study examined the perception of reciprocity by older adults in their relationships with adolescents in organized intergenerational programs in senior centers. Two-Hundred senior citizens were surveyed with the goal of examining the relationship between how perceived reciprocity in intergenerational relationships related to generational isolation and geriatric depression. Reciprocity surfaced as an important and consistent predictor for generational isolation and geriatric depression. Implications for social work research and policy are discussed. Ethical considerations of working with older adults are addressed.