Intergenerational Cultural Programs for Older People in Long-Term Care Institutions: East Africa Case

Enos Omondi, HelpAge International
Roseline Kihumba, HelpAge International
Prafulla Mishra, HelpAge International
Emily Kemigisha, HelpAge International

An ageing population is a global phenomenon that is taking place in Africa gradually but steadily. In East Africa, the active ageing policies are a social response to social challenges caused by demographic transitions. Growing generational gap is a challenge to all “greying societies” in Africa and East Africa in particular. Using a mix of both qualitative and quantitative approaches, HelpAge sought to explore how LTCIs intergenerational cultural programs are helping to keep youngest and oldest generations connected. HelpAge utilizes its longitudinal data to show that those who are residing in LTCIs settings are subject to everyday routine and opposes the African culture of living with one’s people. Institutionalised LTC is very much dependent on the authorities of the institution. There exist extremely low levels of insufficient interaction between older people and the more active part of society.