News
14 September, 2024
The benefits of Playtime
Engaging in play with children isn’t just a source of joy for parents and grandparents—it can also be a significant boost to mental health, according to new research.
A study conducted by the University of South Australia (UniSA) and the University of Canberra (UC) has explored the positive effects of intergenerational play, which brings young children and older adults together through activities like storytelling, playground games, and creative exercises.
The concept of intergenerational play is gaining importance as the world faces an ageing population.
By 2050, the proportion of people aged over 60 is expected to double, while the number of those aged over 80 is set to triple.
With these demographic shifts, fostering connections between generations is becoming increasingly essential to address the challenges of social isolation and mental health issues among older adults.
Associate Professor Fanke Peng, Deputy Director of the Australian Research Centre for Interactive and Virtual Environments at UniSA, said there was a need for public spaces that promote interaction between different age groups.
She notes there is a growing social divide between the young and the old, which leaves limited opportunities for meaningful interactions outside of family and educational settings.
“This age-based segregation causes feelings of isolation and social disconnectedness, which in turn can lead to depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and cognitive decline in older adults,” she said.
To combat these issues, the researchers advocate for the creation of playgrounds designed to facilitate intergenerational play.
These specially designed spaces would not only provide a venue for physical activity, but also serve as a platform for fostering emotional connections between generations.
Assoc Prof Peng said social attitudes and stigmas surrounding play present significant barriers to older adults’ participation in such activities, with many people feeling that it’s inappropriate for them to engage in playground activities as they age.
