Researchers at Stellenbosch University have found that talking to children can improve mental health in older adults and help them cope with anxiety and depression. Research published in the journal PLOS ONE.
Psychologists conducted a study in a nursing home in South Africa where residents were able to interact regularly with children attending a kindergarten near the nursing home. Activities were organized for them with joint puzzle solving, reading, singing and games.
Researchers asked participants to fill out a questionnaire to assess their anxiety and depression levels and describe their experiences with children. Ten women participated in the study.
Analyzing the results, the researchers concluded that intergenerational interaction programs could help cope with mental illness common among nursing home residents.
Previous research shows that anxiety and depression often go undiagnosed and untreated in nursing homes. Standard treatment for these conditions often includes a combination of medication and psychotherapy.
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