Intergenerational initiatives to support health and well-being of people aging with traumatic brain injury: an exploratory qualitative research protocol.

BACKGROUND

The increase in traumatic brain injury (TBI) among older adults in the context of an aging population poses significant challenges, including limited opportunities for social participation and decreased overall well-being. The double stigmatization due to ableism and ageism may further worsen these challenges. To date, interventions designed to support social participation of this population remain scarce and under documented, particularly within community-based settings. Intergenerational initiatives have shown positive impacts on health and social participation. Yet they remain largely unexplored for people aging with TBI.

OBJECTIVE

This project aims to (1) explore the potential outcomes of implementing intergenerational initiatives for people aging with TBI in community settings; (2) identify facilitators and barriers to the planning, implementation, and evaluation of such initiatives; and (3) determine appropriate evaluation strategies for these initiatives for people aging with TBI.

METHODS

This descriptive qualitative project is part of a broader participatory action research project in which an intergenerational initiative was co-designed by and for people living with TBI. Semi-structured interviews will be conducted with people aging with TBI (n = 4), intergenerational program experts (n = 4), community workers (n = 4), and managers from community-based organizations (n = 4). The interview guide was co-developed by the lead student researcher (M.V.) and the lead researcher (S.T.) through an iterative process, in collaboration with members of the research team (M.L., P.S., A.L.). Data will be analyzed using an inductive approach structured by the Framework Method.

CONCLUSION

This project will generate essential knowledge to support the development of intergenerational initiatives tailored to the needs and realities of people aging with TBI, an area that remains largely unaddressed. This project will offer insights into the potential of these initiatives to enhance social participation, reduce isolation, and foster inclusive community environments. In addition, the findings will highlight the main conditions and obstacles influencing the implementation process, providing actionable recommendations for practitioners and organizations. Finally, it will inform best practices for evaluating the outcomes and impacts of intergenerational initiatives, considering participant profiles and contextual factors.