Fostering Connections: Implementing Intergenerational Practices in Brazil for Healthy Aging

The Decade of Healthy Aging (2021-2030) emphasizes intergenerationality as a critical component of its action axes, including combating ageism, promoting age-friendly environments, and providing integrated and long-term care. This study aims to propose strategies for implementing intergenerational practices in Brazil. Utilizing a qualitative, diagnostic, descriptive, and exploratory approach, we identified leaders of intergenerational practices across all municipal and state health departments. A total of 151 practices were identified through systematic website searches (146 practices), alongside random searches on social networks and seminar participation (17 practices). We contacted the coordinators of these projects, and 14 agreed to participate in a focus group, which consisted of three sessions with 6-8 participants each, lasting approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. During these sessions, observational notes were meticulously recorded to capture the nuances of the discussions. Data collection took place between June and October 2023, and the analysis was guided by Bardin's (1977) framework. From this analysis, four key categories emerged: 1) the institutional challenges of providing social protection for older adults and individuals with disabilities from an intergenerational perspective; 2) the necessity of education around aging and intergenerationality; 3) the acknowledgment that intergenerationality requires further discourse despite its current presence; and 4) promising pathways for intergenerational engagements in schools, universities, and community settings. The study highlights the significance of intergenerational engagements, particularly initiatives that connect preschool children with their grandparents and interactions between long-term care facility residents and young learners. These findings illustrate the diverse and flexible nature of intergenerational practices, indicating that such initiatives can significantly enhance community ties and understanding among different age groups. By deepening the discourse on intergenerational practices, this research contributes valuable insights into effective strategies for promoting social cohesion and well-being within the Brazilian context, thus addressing a vital component of the Decade of Healthy Aging.