We are proud to celebrate the successful completion of a systematic review by a doctoral student in Florence, Italy, whom Dr. Holloway and his program, Tellegacy, had the privilege of supporting throughout her research process. This milestone represents more than an academic achievement. It reflects what becomes possible when rigorous research, intergenerational connection, and meaningful mentorship come together.
Systematic reviews require discipline, patience, and clarity. Supporting this work meant walking alongside the researcher through study selection, synthesis, interpretation, and refinement. It is the kind of behind the scenes collaboration that does not always show up in headlines, yet it strengthens the foundation of evidence that practitioners, communities, and aging services rely on.
Summary of the Systematic Review
The systematic review examined intergenerational programs that intentionally bring young adults and older adults together, with a focus on outcomes related to active aging, well being, social connection, and ageism. Using PRISMA guidelines and drawing from four major academic databases, the review synthesized findings from 26 peer reviewed studies conducted across multiple countries.
The results were clear and consistent. Intergenerational programs were associated with improved mental health, stronger social inclusion, increased community cohesion, and meaningful reductions in ageism for both generations. Most studies reported benefits for both younger and older participants, particularly in relational dynamics, mutual understanding, and emotional wellbeing. Programs ranged from educational and community based initiatives to meaningful activity, reminiscence, physical activity, and technology focused approaches.
At the same time, the review highlighted important gaps. Many programs varied widely in design, duration, and theoretical grounding, making it difficult to compare outcomes or scale best practices. The findings underscore the need for more standardized approaches, clearer frameworks, and balanced evaluation of outcomes for all generations involved. Together, the evidence points to intergenerational connection as a powerful, yet still underutilized, strategy for promoting active aging and healthier communities
See Michele Savino’s article here
Why This Research Matters Right Now
Loneliness, workforce strain in aging services, and persistent age based assumptions are not abstract challenges. They show up daily in nursing homes, assisted living communities, memory care settings, and aging centers around the world. This research reinforces what many practitioners already sense intuitively: sustained, meaningful intergenerational connection supports wellbeing, reduces isolation, and strengthens both individuals and systems.
At a time when aging services are under pressure to do more with less, evidence informed intergenerational approaches offer a practical path forward. They support older adults without framing them as passive recipients. They support younger adults without reducing them to volunteers. Most importantly, they restore human connection as a core ingredient of care.
How Tellegacy’s Internship Program Makes This Possible
This doctoral project reflects the heart of Tellegacy’s internship model. Our interns do not observe from the sidelines. They engage directly in meaningful research, program development, and community connected work. Through our internships, multiple students each year have the opportunity to contribute to systematic reviews, program evaluations, literature syntheses, and applied research tied directly to real world aging contexts.
Interns work alongside researchers, practitioners, and community partners. They learn how evidence is built, questioned, and applied. In return, aging services benefit from thoughtful, grounded contributions that strengthen practice and understanding.
How You Can Get Involved
Intergenerational impact does not start in a journal. It starts locally.
If you are a student, educator, caregiver, or community member, you can get involved by reaching out to a local nursing home, assisted living facility, memory care community, or aging center and asking how intergenerational connection could support their residents and staff. Small conversations often lead to meaningful partnerships.
If you are interested in internships, research collaboration, or bringing intergenerational programs or trainings to your organization, we would love to hear from you.
📧 Contact us at: social@tellegacy.com
Together, we can continue turning research into relationship, and evidence into impact.
