Family Medicine & Medical Science Research
Open Access

Intergenerational Approaches for Combatting Frailty

Tom Koch^{* *}Correspondence: Tom Koch, Department of Family Medicine, Mcgill University, Montreal, Canada, Email:

Author info »

About the Study

Frailty, often associated with aging, is a condition characterized by a decline in physical and cognitive functions, increased vulnerability to stressors, and an elevated risk of adverse health outcomes. While frailty is commonly observed in older adults, addressing this multifaceted issue requires innovative and holistic approaches that span generations. Intergenerational strategies, involving collaboration and mutual support between different age groups, offer a promising avenue to combat frailty and promote health and well-being for all.

Understanding frailty across generations

Frailty is not confined to the elderly; it can manifest at different stages of life due to various factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and socio-economic conditions. Intergenerational approaches acknowledge the interconnectedness of health across age groups and emphasize the importance of addressing frailty collectively [1].

Shared physical activities

Engaging in physical activities is a cornerstone of combating frailty, and intergenerational approaches leverage the energy and vitality of younger generations to encourage and support older adults in staying active [2]. Community-based programs that involve joint activities, such as walking clubs, fitness classes, or intergenerational sports, create opportunities for shared physical experiences that benefit participants of all ages [3].

Knowledge exchange

Intergenerational approaches facilitate the exchange of knowledge and experiences between different age groups. Older adults can share their wisdom and life experiences with younger generations, while the younger population can contribute their insights into modern technology, social trends, and changing lifestyles. This exchange fosters mutual understanding, respect, and a sense of interconnectedness [4].

Mentorship and skill transfer

Building mentorship programs that connect older individuals with younger counterparts creates a platform for skill transfer and knowledge sharing. Older adults, with their wealth of experience, can mentor younger individuals in various domains, from professional skills to life management [5]. In return, younger generations can provide technological and contemporary insights, promoting a sense of purpose and fulfilment among older mentors.

Intergenerational living arrangements

Intergenerational housing models, where different age groups coexist and collaborate, provide a supportive environment for combating frailty [6]. Shared living arrangements, such as cohousing communities or intergenerational housing complexes, create opportunities for social interactions, emotional support, and the pooling of resources and skills [7].

Volunteerism and community engagement

Engaging in volunteer activities that involve both older and younger individuals fosters a sense of community and shared responsibility. Whether participating in community gardening organizing events, or supporting local initiatives, intergenerational volunteerism promotes a sense of purpose, social connection, and a shared commitment to community well being [8].

Technology literacy programs

Bridging the digital divide is crucial in an era where technology plays a significant role in daily life. Intergenerational approaches involve technology literacy programs that pair younger individuals with older adults to enhance digital skills [9]. This not only promotes social connectivity but also empowers older adults to access online resources, stay connected with loved ones, and engage in virtual activities.

Emotional support networks

Frailty is not solely physical; it can affect emotional well-being as well. Intergenerational approaches emphasize the importance of emotional support networks, where individuals of different ages provide companionship, empathy, and understanding [10]. Programs that pair older adults with younger "buddies" for regular check-ins or shared activities contribute to mental and emotional resilience [11].

Cultural and recreational integration

Intergenerational activities that celebrate cultural diversity and shared recreational interests create vibrant and inclusive communities. Events, workshops, and celebrations that involve participants from different age groups contribute to a sense of belonging, break down stereotypes, and enrich the collective cultural experience [12].

Addressing frailty through intergenerational approaches is not just about providing care for the elderly; it's about creating a holistic framework that recognizes the interconnectedness of health across generations [13]. By fostering collaboration, shared experiences, and mutual support, intergenerational strategies combat frailty at its roots, promoting physical, emotional, and social well-being for individuals of all ages.

As societies continue to age, the importance of intergenerational approaches becomes increasingly evident [14]. Embracing the strengths and contributions of each generation creates a resilient fabric that weaves together the wisdom of the past, the vibrancy of the present, and the promise of the future [15]. In combating frailty across ages, we not only enhance the quality of life for older adults but also create communities that thrive on shared values, mutual respect, and the collective pursuit of well-being.

References

1. McPhail MJ, Shawcross DL, Abeles RD, Chang A, Patel V, Lee GH, et al. Increased survival for patients with cirrhosis and organ failure in liver intensive care and validation of the chronic liver failure–sequential organ failure scoring system. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2015;13(7):1353-1360.

   [Crossref] [Google Scholar] [PubMed]

2. Weil D, Levesque E, McPhail M, Cavallazzi R, Theocharidou E, Cholongitas E, et al. Prognosis of cirrhotic patients admitted to intensive care unit: A meta-analysis. Ann Intensive Care. 2017;7:1-14.

   [Crossref] [Google Scholar] [PubMed]

3. Arabi YM, Dara SI, Memish Z, Al Abdulkareem A, Tamim HM, Al‐Shirawi N, et al. Antimicrobial therapeutic determinants of outcomes from septic shock among patients with cirrhosis. Hepatology. 2012;56(6):2305-2315.

   [Crossref] [Google Scholar] [PubMed]

4. Boyer TD, Sanyal AJ, Garcia-Tsao G, Blei A, Carl D, Bexon AS, et al. Predictors of response to terlipressin plus albumin in Hepatorenal Syndrome (HRS) type 1: relationship of serum creatinine to hemodynamics. J Hepatol. 2011;55(2):315-321.

   [Crossref] [Google Scholar] [PubMed]

5. Martín–Llahí M, Pépin MN, Guevara M, Díaz F, Torre A, Monescillo A, et al. Terlipressin and albumin vs albumin in patients with cirrhosis and hepatorenal syndrome: A randomized study. Gastroenterology. 2008;134(5):1352-1359.

   [Crossref] [Google Scholar] [PubMed]

6. Bajaj JS, O’Leary JG, Tandon P, Wong F, Garcia-Tsao G, Kamath PS, et al. Hepatic encephalopathy is associated with mortality in patients with cirrhosis independent of other extrahepatic organ failures. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2017;15(4):565-574.

   [Crossref] [Google Scholar] [PubMed]

7. Singal AK, Shah VH. Current trials and novel therapeutic targets for alcoholic hepatitis. J Hepatol. 2019;70(2):305-313.

   [Crossref] [Google Scholar] [PubMed]

8. Nevens F, Bittencourt PL, Coenraad MJ, Ding H, Hou MC, Laterre PF, et al. Recommendations on the diagnosis and initial management of acute variceal bleeding and hepatorenal syndrome in patients with cirrhosis. Dig Dis Sci. 2019;64:1419-1431.

   [Crossref] [Google Scholar] [PubMed]

9. Weiss E, Paugam-Burtz C, Jaber S. Shock etiologies and fluid management in liver failure. Semin Respir Crit Care Med. 2018;39(5):538-545.

   [Crossref] [Google Scholar] [PubMed]

10. Arroyo V, Moreau R, Jalan R. Acute-on-chronic liver failure. N Engl J Med. 2020;382(22):2137-2145.

    [Crossref] [Google Scholar] [PubMed]

11. Clària J, Stauber RE, Coenraad MJ, Moreau R, Jalan R, Pavesi M, et al. Systemic inflammation in decompensated cirrhosis: Characterization and role in acute‐on‐chronic liver failure. Hepatology. 2016;64(4):1249-1264.

    [Crossref] [Google Scholar] [PubMed]

12. Iwakiri Y, Shah V, Rockey DC. Vascular pathobiology in chronic liver disease and cirrhosis–current status and future directions. J Hepatol. 2014;61(4):912-924.

    [Crossref] [Google Scholar] [PubMed]

13. Arroyo V, García-Martinez R, Salvatella X. Human serum albumin, systemic inflammation, and cirrhosis. J Hepatol. 2014;61(2):396-407.

    [Crossref] [Google Scholar] [PubMed]

14. Møller S, Hove JD, Dixen U, Bendtsen F. New insights into cirrhotic cardiomyopathy. Int J cardiol. 2013;167(4):1101-1108.

    [Crossref] [Google Scholar] [PubMed]

15. Moreau R, Jalan R, Gines P, Pavesi M, Angeli P, Cordoba J, et al. Acute-on-chronic liver failure is a distinct syndrome that develops in patients with acute decompensation of cirrhosis. Gastroenterology. 2013;144(7):1426-1437.

    [Crossref] [Google Scholar] [PubMed]