| Description |
Background: Senior centers provide programs and services that are intended to support and meet the needs of older adults. They serve as a place for connection and socialization, yet participation is low amongst the growing Hispanic older adult population. One reason for this is the lack of culturally appropriate programming and staffing among senior centers. Immigrants experience loss of connection to peers, family, and ritual when moving to the United States. Senior centers are a resource with the potential of meeting the needs of minority and immigrant populations. The purpose of this project was to 1) develop a cooking class, called Mis Abuelos y Yo, in order to promote food rituals in diverse Hispanic populations, and 2) implement the class within a senior center to promote intergenerational sharing between Hispanic grandparents and their grandchildren. Methods: Two cooking classes were developed and implemented at a senior center to promote and encourage intergenerational discussion around food rituals and storytelling of grandparent's earliest experiences with cooking. The total sample size was eight participants, including four grandmothers from different parts of Latin America, and their four grandchildren. The classes were offered in Spanish. Data was collected using an interview questionnaire that prompted discussion between grandparent and grandchild. At the end of the class, adult participants completed a program evaluation survey to assess satisfaction and identify areas for class improvement. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze quantitative data and descriptive analysis was used to provide narrative descriptions of participant experiences. Results: A description of the two courses is provided, including preparation and implementation agenda. Participants described cultural traditions, food preparation, and rituals with their grandchildren. They reported enjoying the class experience, the ability to share something new with their grandchild, and the opportunity to share family rituals. All participants agreed that they would take this class again and requested more time for socializing. Discussion: Based on program evaluations, Mis Abuelos y Yo positively impacted participants. The use of an Open + Targeted model at this senior center, facilitated an intergenerational experience. Future classes should provide additional time for socialization and extend the opportunity to other populations. Implications: Mi Abuelos y Yo class provides an opportunity for grandchildren and grandparents to connect with one another. In addition, this is one example of providing opportunities for minorities within senior centers. Other programs can use this example to develop programming to support intergenerational connection, socialization, and community building for a variety of ethnic groups. Learning about food rituals and ethnic culture is one way to meet the needs of a diverse populations at senior centers. |
