The effect of intergenerational exercise program on physical and mental health in young and older adults

Students: Madison Souza, Addyson Renard, Leonel Sanchez, Beshoy Yousif, Diana Ramirez, Madelynne Silva, Emma Hall, Andre Sponseller

Faculty Mentor: Poram Choi

Kinesiology

College of Science, Technology, and Business

This study seeks to examine the effects of an intergenerational exercise program on both the physical and mental health of participants over a 4-week period. We are conducting the "Walking Buddy Program," which pairs older adults with young adults for regular walking sessions. Our central hypotheses are that participation in the Walking Buddy Program will: (1) reduce levels of depression and anxiety, (2) enhance social skills and increase social support, (3) lower fall risk factors among older adults, (4) improve physical fitness, and (5) reduce ageism among young adults. The program will be completed by the end of this week. Once we complete the program, we will add the results and discuss them in the abstract.