Intergenerational Pathways to a Sustainable Society

Authors: Matthew Kaplan, Mariano Sanchez, Jaco Hoffman



Highlights potential contributions of intergenerational practice to health and well-being, education, work policies, family, etc.

Presents major intergenerational theories and research studies from a wide range of settings and objectives

Presents basic themes that are seemingly “universal” across geographic regions and cultural contexts

Includes regional case studies, applications, models and approaches

This volume explores intergenerational practices and their impact on social sustainability, with an emphasis on developing programmatic efforts to address profound social challenges such as underperforming educational and work-related systems, failing support systems for dependent or vulnerable populations, and community renewal and regeneration efforts. To this end, the core argument is to present issues related to age, aging, and generations, not only as problems, but as catalysts to facilitate improved quality of life for all generations.

For societies to be sustainable, all generations must coexist at any given time and across time (non-contemporary generations). Hence, the ultimate vision presented here is one of intergenerational sustainability as both a conceptual tool and as a call for action. Intergenerational pathways are introduced as strategies for improving health and well-being across the lifespan, strengthening families, improving under-performing educational and work-related systems, and helping to build more cohesive, caring communities.

Reviewing some of the historical factors and developments influencing intergenerational studies, as well as presenting regional case studies and comparative research, this book presents successful models that may be applied to everyday multigenerational practices in institutions such as education, family life, housing, healthcare, employment, and community development.   The result is an accessible resource for students, academics, policymakers, community leaders, and citizens concerned with creating opportunities amidst challenging demographic and social changes.

Table of contents

Front Matter

Overview

Introduction

Intergenerational Approaches for Sustaining Individual Health and Well-being

Intergenerational Strategies for Sustaining Families and Family Life

Intergenerational Strategies for Promoting Lifelong Learning and Education

Intergenerational Strategies for Sustaining Strong Communities

Intergenerational Strategies for Establishing Sustainable Work Environments

Intergenerational Strategies for Preserving and Appreciating the Natural Environment

Conclusion