AgedESPIRE-MNCT06860126
Improving Sports and Recreation Services in Mashhad for Elderly and Intergenerational Interaction (ESPIRE-M)
A study testing Intergenerational Activity Program: This indicates a program that involves activities designed for interaction between older adults and younger participants, Yoga and Mindfulness Sessions and Physical Exercise and Storytelling in people with Aged and Quality of Life, run by Zinat Ebrahimi at 2 sites in Iran.
Trial summary
This interventional study aims to design strategies to improve service quality and productivity in recreational sports facilities in Mashhad Municipality, focusing on creating an age-friendly city. The research consists of two parts: fieldwork and an experimental section. Field Section: 1. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 60 years and olderHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Aged, Quality of Life, Mental Health
- What is being tested?
- Intergenerational Activity Program: This indicates a program that involves activities designed for interaction between older adults and younger participants, Yoga and Mindfulness Sessions and Physical Exercise and Storytelling
- Type of treatment
- Lifestyle or therapy programme
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 384 participants
- Where
- 2 sitesIran
- Study dates
- 5 Sep 2018to 12 Feb 2019
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- None posted in the registry
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 60 years and older
- All sexes
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Adult, Older adult
Who may be able to join
- Elderly Participants:
- Aged 60 years or older.
- Ability to engage in physical activities.
- Absence of sensory or motor disabilities.
- No use of antidepressant medications.
- No history of conditions such as Alzheimer's or other illnesses that could pose risks during exercise.
Show all 11Show fewer
- Younger Participants:
- Aged 20 to 24 years.
- Unmarried.
- Living with their parents.
- Native residents of Mashhad.
Who cannot join
- Irregular attendance (more than two absences).
- Physical or psychological issues hindering participation.
- Lack of willingness to continue.
Trial locations and contacts
2 sites in 1 country.
Iran2 sites
Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, Islamic Azad University, Sanandaj, Iran.
Sanandaj, Kurdistan Province, 0098
Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, Faculty of Humanities and Literature, Sanandaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Sanandaj, Iran.
Sanandaj, Kurdistan Province, 6616947455
About this study
Official title: Design and Development of Strategies for Improving the Quality of Service and Utilization of Sporting and Recreational Places in the Municipality of Mashhad With the Approach to Elderly-Friendly City
This interventional study aims to design strategies to improve service quality and productivity in recreational sports facilities in Mashhad Municipality, focusing on creating an age-friendly city. The research consists of two parts: fieldwork and an experimental section.
Field Section:
Read more
- Assess seniors' perceptions of services using the SERVQUAL questionnaire and other tools.
- Conduct a SWOT analysis to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats related to elderly sports participation.
Experimental Section:
Evaluate the impact of intergenerational sports activities on elderly participants (aged 60+). Participants were paired with younger individuals and randomly allocated to five groups, including a control group.
Group Tasks:
- Control Group: 78 seniors continued daily routines without structured activities.
- Experimental Groups:
- Non-sport intergenerational interaction sessions (90 minutes, 3x/week).
- Intergenerational yoga sessions (90 minutes, 3x/week).
- Light aerobic exercises + group discussions (90 minutes, 3x/week).
- Non-exercise intergenerational sessions in a park (90 minutes, 3x/week).
- Non-exercise intergenerational sessions in a nursing home (90 minutes, 3x/week). Field Study Sample:
- 384 customers of Mashhad Municipality sports facilities (192 women, 192 men).
Key Notes:
- Elderly participants were selected through cluster sampling; younger participants were purposively sampled from Mashhad's Islamic Azad University.
- Gender balance (50% women, 50% men) was maintained in all groups.
Main Questions:
- How do service quality factors influence customers of Mashhad Municipality sports facilities?
- Do intergenerational programs improve quality of life, health, and well-being for seniors?
- What are the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats for elderly sports participation?
- What strategies can enhance elderly participation in sports?
Read the detailed description
- Data Collection Instruments
The following questionnaires will be utilized to achieve the research objectives:
- Demographic Characteristics Questionnaire: Includes variables such as age, gender, marital status, income, education level, occupation, and number of children.
- Socio-economic Status Questionnaire: Assesses various dimensions of socio-economic status.
- World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire: Measures quality of life based on established criteria.
- Elderly Depression Questionnaire: Assesses depression levels among elderly participants.
- General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28): A self-administered tool examining overall health, focusing on non-psychotic disorders.
- Parent-Child Relationship Scale: Evaluates the dynamics of relationships between parents and their children.
- Student Depression Questionnaire: Measures depression levels among university students.
- Service Quality Questionnaire: Assesses the quality of services provided.
- Facility Checklist and Productivity Index Checklist: Tools for evaluating facility conditions and efficiency.
- World Health Organization Age-Friendly City Criteria Questionnaire: Assesses compliance with age-friendly city standards.
- Study Population and Sample Selection
The study population includes two groups:
- Elderly Participants: Individuals aged 60 years and older residing in Mashhad. Recruitment will occur through public announcements and notices in locations such as parks and mosques, aiming to enroll 150 elderly individuals using purposive and convenient sampling.
- Young Participants: Students aged 20 to 24 years enrolled at Islamic Azad University. A total of 100 students (50 male, 50 female) will be recruited through public announcements and notices posted in all faculties during the academic year 2017-2018.
After collecting demographic data and completing questionnaires, elderly participants will be randomly assigned to three groups: two experimental groups and one control group. The sample size is based on experimental research designs, with a larger number selected to enhance generalizability and reduce dropout rates.
- Limitations of the Study
- Lack of accurate data on the number of active elderly individuals and their participation levels in regular sports activities.
- Cultural barriers limiting women's participation in community activities.
- Limited access to organizations specializing in elderly issues, restricting the ability to obtain a representative sample.
- Ethical Considerations
- Participants will be informed about the study's objectives and methodology before participation.
- Informed consent will be obtained from all participants.
- Confidentiality of personal information will be maintained.
- Private interpretations of results will be offered to interested individuals.
- No financial burden will be imposed on participants.
- The study will comply with religious and cultural standards relevant to participants and the broader community.
- Conditions
- Aged, Quality of Life, Mental Health
- Being tested
- Intergenerational Activity Program: This indicates a program that involves activities designed for interaction between older adults and younger participants, Yoga and Mindfulness Sessions, Physical Exercise and Storytelling, Outdoor Interaction Games, Social Visits to Nursing Homes
- Keywords
- Intergenerational Interaction, Age-Friendly City, Recreational Sports Facilities, Elderly Participation in Sports, Quality of Life in Seniors, Service Quality in Sports Facilities, SERVQUAL Questionnaire, SWOT Analysis for Elderly Sports, Yoga for Seniors, Light Aerobic Exercises for Elderly, Non-Sporting Intergenerational Programs, Health Outcomes in Elderly, Depression Reduction in Seniors, Social Engagement in Elderly, Mashhad Municipality Sports Programs, Elderly Well-Being, Urban Recreational Strategies, Inclusive Sports Programs, Physical Activity for Seniors, Psychological Health in Elderly
- Medical subject headings
- Psychological Well-Being
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Intergenerational Activity Program: This indicates a program that involves activities designed for interaction between older adults and younger participantsBehavioural
Engage in 90-minute intergenerational interaction sessions, three times a week for three months, in a controlled indoor environment.
- Spend the first 45 minutes actively interacting with a younger participant in pairs, collaborating on activities of interest to the senior.
- Participate in group activities such as book reading, puzzles, joke-telling, and sharing experiences for the remaining 45 minutes.
- Attend 36 sessions held on odd days in the main hall of the Neshat Center.
- Gender Representation:
- 60 participants (30 women and 30 men) aged 60 and above, selected through stratified random sampling from Mashhad's elderly population.
- 60 younger participants (30 women and 30 men) with an average age of 21.45 ± 0.35 years, selected through purposive sampling from Mashhad's Islamic Azad University.
Yoga and Mindfulness SessionsBehavioural
Participate in 90-minute intergenerational yoga sessions, three times a week for three months, in a gym setting.
- Perform modified yoga exercises suitable for seniors, including:
- 20 minutes of warm-up with stretching and joint rotations.
- 50 minutes of main exercises (asanas and pranayama).
- 20 minutes of relaxation and meditation (Shavasana).
- Attend sessions on odd days at 9 AM in the Neshat Center yoga hall.
- Gender Representation:
- 60 participants (30 women and 30 men) aged 60 and above, selected through stratified random sampling from Mashhad's elderly population.
- 60 younger participants (30 women and 30 men) with an average age of 21.45 ± 0.35 years, selected through purposive sampling from Mashhad's Islamic Azad University.
Physical Exercise and StorytellingBehavioural
Engage in 60-minute light aerobic exercises, three times a week for three months, in a park setting.
- Follow warm-up and aerobic exercises led by a senior fitness instructor.
- Spend 30 minutes in a friendly group discussion, sharing experiences and memories with younger participants.
- Attend sessions on even days at 9 AM in Mashhad's Mellat Park.
- Gender Representation:
- 60 participants (30 women and 30 men) aged 60 and above, selected through stratified random sampling from Mashhad's elderly population.
- 60 younger participants (30 women and 30 men) with an average age of 21.45 ± 0.35 years, selected through purposive sampling from Mashhad's Islamic Azad University.
Outdoor Interaction GamesBehavioural
Participate in 90-minute intergenerational interaction sessions, three times a week for three months, in a park setting.
- Engage in non-exercise activities such as group discussions, storytelling, and sharing experiences with younger participants.
- Attend sessions on even days at 9 AM in Mashhad's Mellat Park.
- Gender Representation:
- 60 participants (30 women and 30 men) aged 60 and above, selected through stratified random sampling from Mashhad's elderly population.
- 60 younger participants (30 women and 30 men) with an average age of 21.45 ± 0.35 years, selected through purposive sampling from Mashhad's Islamic Azad University.
Social Visits to Nursing HomesBehavioural
Engage in 90-minute intergenerational interaction sessions, three times a week for three months, in a nursing home setting.
- Participate in non-exercise activities such as group discussions, storytelling, and sharing experiences with younger participants.
- Attend sessions on odd days at 9 AM in the nursing home.
- Gender Representation:
- 60 participants (30 women and 30 men) aged 60 and above, selected through stratified random sampling from Mashhad's elderly population.
- 60 younger participants (30 women and 30 men) with an average age of 21.45 ± 0.35 years, selected through purposive sampling from Mashhad's Islamic Azad University.
control groupOther
Continue with their daily routines without participating in any intergenerational interaction or structured activities.
- No specific interventions or programs are provided.
- Gender Representation:
- 78 participants (39 women and 39 men) aged 60 and above, selected through stratified random sampling from Mashhad's elderly population.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Experimental Group 1 | Experimental | * Tasks: Engage in 90-minute non-sport intergenerational interaction sessions, three times weekly for three months, in a controlled indoor environment. Activities include paired interactions and group discussions.
* Participants: 60 seniors (30 women, 30 men) and 60 younger individuals (30 women, 30 men, average age 21.45 ± 0.35 years). Receives: Behavioral: Intergenerational Activity Program: This indicates a program that involves activities designed for interaction between older adults and younger participants |
| Experimental Group 2 | Experimental | * Tasks: Participate in 90-minute intergenerational yoga sessions, three times weekly for three months, in a gym setting. Sessions include warm-up, yoga exercises (asanas and pranayama), and relaxation.
* Participants: 60 seniors (30 women, 30 men) and 60 younger individuals (30 women, 30 men). Receives: Behavioral: Yoga and Mindfulness Sessions |
| Experimental Group 3 | Experimental | * Tasks: Engage in 60-minute light aerobic exercises in a park, followed by 30-minute group discussions, three times weekly for three months.
* Participants: 60 seniors (30 women, 30 men) and 60 younger individuals (30 women, 30 men). Receives: Behavioral: Physical Exercise and Storytelling |
| Experimental Group 4 | Experimental | * Tasks: Participate in 90-minute non-exercise intergenerational interaction sessions in a park, focusing on group discussions and storytelling.
* Participants: 60 seniors (30 women, 30 men) and 60 younger individuals (30 women, 30 men). Receives: Behavioral: Outdoor Interaction Games |
| Experimental Group 5 | Experimental | * Tasks: Engage in 90-minute non-exercise intergenerational interaction sessions in a nursing home, focusing on group discussions and storytelling.
* Participants: 60 seniors (30 women, 30 men) and 60 younger individuals (30 women, 30 men). Receives: Behavioral: Social Visits to Nursing Homes |
| Control Group | Other | * Tasks: Continue daily routines without intergenerational interaction or structured activities.
* Participants: 78 seniors (39 women, 39 men) selected through stratified random sampling. Receives: Other: control group |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Effects of Intergenerational Interventions on Quality of Life Effects of Intergenerational Interventions on Quality of Life Effects of Intergenerational Interventions on Quality of Life
Quality of Life (QOL) was assessed using the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire (Short Form), a 26-item tool measuring four dimensions: physical health, psychological health, social relationships, and environment. Items are rated on a 6-point scale, with scores converted to a 0-100 scale. Higher scores indicate better QOL.
- Pre-Test Scores:
- Physical Health: Range = 12.5-68.75
- Psychological: Range = 31.25-62.5
- Social Relationships: Range = 37.5-50
- Environment: Range = 25-62.5
- Post-Test Scores:
- Physical Health: Range = 25-68.75
- Psychological: Range = 18.75-62.5
- Social Relationships: Range = 28.125-46.875
- Environment: Range = 12.5-37.5
- Results:
- Physical health: 41.53 (baseline) → 70.97 (post-intervention).
- Psychological: 40.93 → 63.31.
- Social relationships: 42.94 → 50.20.
- Environment: 44.15 → 52.62.
Measured: Baseline and after a 3-month intervention period.
Effects of Intergenerational Interventions on Mental Health (General Health)
Mental health was assessed using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28), a 28-item tool evaluating physical symptoms, anxiety, social functioning, and depression. Items are scored from 0 to 3, with total scores ranging from 0-84. Higher scores indicate greater psychological distress.
Pre-test Scores:
Somatic symptoms: 4-21
Anxiety and sleep disorder: 2-21
Social function: 7-21
Depression symptoms: 9-21
Total: 29-70
Post-test Scores:
Somatic symptoms: 5-21
Anxiety and sleep disorder: 1-21
Social function: 7-20
Depression symptoms: 7-21
Total: 30-68
- Somatic symptoms: 13.61 (baseline) → 8.78 (post-intervention).
- Anxiety and sleep disorder: 13.62 → 7.27.
- Social function: 15.48 → 11.95.
- Depression symptoms: 13.57 → 6.63.
Measured: Baseline and after a 3-month intervention period.
Effects of Intergenerational Interventions on Depression Levels
Depression levels were measured using the Geriatric Depression Scale (Short Form), a 15-item binary response questionnaire specifically designed for the elderly. Scores range from 0-15, with higher scores indicating greater depression.
Pre-test Scores: 8-15
Post-test Scores: 5-14
Measured: Measurements were taken at baseline and after a 3-month intervention period.
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted5 Mar 2025
- Study start5 Sep 2018
- Primary completion15 Oct 2018
- Study completion12 Feb 2019
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Publications (17)Papers the sponsor has linked to this study.
- Other trials for AgedStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Prevention
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Model description
- This study employs a Parallel Group interventional study model within a semi-experimental design framework. The methodology consists of two descriptive-correlational studies and a pre-test/post-test design with a control group. Research Design Participants were randomly assigned to six distinct groups: five experimental groups focused on different activities (intergenerational interaction, yoga exercises, exercise and interaction, park activities, and nursing home interaction) and one control group that maintained regular daily activities. This design allows for direct comparison of outcomes across groups and effectively assesses the interventions' relative effectiveness. Study Population and Sample Selection The study targeted elderly individuals aged 60 years and older, totaling 22,481, along with young participants aged 20 to 24 from Islamic Azad University. A cluster sampling method was employed to recruit 180 elderly participants, evenly divided by gender, along with 150 young
- Masking
- Double blind
- Who is masked
- Participant, Outcomes assessor
- Enrolment
- 384 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Zinat Ebrahimi
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Sponsor-investigator, Zinat Ebrahimi, Islamic Azad University, Sanandaj
- Investigators
- Dr. Zinat Ebrahimi, Professor, Principal investigator, Physical Education and Sport, Islamic Azad Sanandaj, Iran.
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT06860126
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- IR-IAU-MSHD.REC.1397.027
- Acronym
- ESPIRE-M
- Status last verified
- Mar 2025
- First submitted
- 11 Feb 2025
- Last updated
- 5 Mar 2025
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- Yes
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No: Due to persistent technical difficulties in providing a functional web address for the IPD sharing plan on the clinical trial site, interested parties are encouraged to contact zin368@gmail.com for further information. We have encountered issues that prevent the proper display or access of the sharing link, necessitating this alternative means of communication.
Publications
Ebrahimi, Zinat. Helen Nazary, Parivash Piraki. (2023). The Service Quality of Sport-entertainment Facilities of Mashhad Municipality with the Approach of an Elderly-friendly City in 2018 (Persian). Journal of Gerontology (joge), 7(4): 89-100. DOI: 10.22034/JOGE.7.4.8. https://joge.ir/article-1-618-fa.html
Veisi, K. Ismailzadeh Ghandehary, M.R. Ebrahimi, Z. (2023). Comparing the Effectiveness of Interventions of Intergenerational Interaction and Physical Activities on Depression of Elderly Women and Men (Persian). Journal of Gerontology (joge). 8(1): 10-19. https://joge.ir/article-1-620-fa.html
Ebrahimi Z, Esmaeilzadeh Ghandehary MR, Veisi K. Comparing the efficacy of Yoga exercise and intergenerational interaction program on mental health of elderly. J Research & Health2019; 9(5): 401- 410.
Eshun-Wilson I, Siegfried N, Akena DH, Stein DJ, Obuku EA, Joska JA. Antidepressants for depression in adults with HIV infection. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2018 Jan 22;1(1):CD008525. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD008525.pub3.
PubMed 29355886Steptoe A, Deaton A, Stone AA. Subjective wellbeing, health, and ageing. Lancet. 2015 Feb 14;385(9968):640-648. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(13)61489-0. Epub 2014 Nov 6.
PubMed 25468152Santini S, Tombolesi V, Baschiera B, Lamura G. Intergenerational Programs Involving Adolescents, Institutionalized Elderly, and Older Volunteers: Results from a Pilot Research-Action in Italy. Biomed Res Int. 2018 Dec 5;2018:4360305. doi: 10.1155/2018/4360305. eCollection 2018.
PubMed 30627555Murayama Y, Ohba H, Yasunaga M, Nonaka K, Takeuchi R, Nishi M, Sakuma N, Uchida H, Shinkai S, Fujiwara Y. The effect of intergenerational programs on the mental health of elderly adults. Aging Ment Health. 2015;19(4):306-14. doi: 10.1080/13607863.2014.933309. Epub 2014 Jul 10.
PubMed 25010219Murayama Y, Murayama H, Hasebe M, Yamaguchi J, Fujiwara Y. The impact of intergenerational programs on social capital in Japan: a randomized population-based cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health. 2019 Feb 6;19(1):156. doi: 10.1186/s12889-019-6480-3.
PubMed 30727981Mosor E, Waldherr K, Kjeken I, Omara M, Ritschl V, Pinter-Theiss V, Smolen J, Hubel U, Stamm T. An intergenerational program based on psycho-motor activity promotes well-being and interaction between preschool children and older adults: results of a process and outcome evaluation study in Austria. BMC Public Health. 2019 Mar 1;19(1):254. doi: 10.1186/s12889-019-6572-0.
PubMed 30823911Luanaigh CO, Lawlor BA. Loneliness and the health of older people. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry. 2008 Dec;23(12):1213-21. doi: 10.1002/gps.2054.
PubMed 18537197Kamei T, Itoi W, Kajii F, Kawakami C, Hasegawa M, Sugimoto T. Six month outcomes of an innovative weekly intergenerational day program with older adults and school-aged children in a Japanese urban community. Jpn J Nurs Sci. 2011 Jun;8(1):95-107. doi: 10.1111/j.1742-7924.2010.00164.x. Epub 2010 Dec 9.
PubMed 21615702Halpin SN, Dillard RL, Idler E, Clevenger C, Rothschild E, Blanton S, Wilson J, Flacker JM. The benefits of being a senior mentor: Cultivating resilience through the mentorship of health professions students. Gerontol Geriatr Educ. 2017 Jul-Sep;38(3):283-294. doi: 10.1080/02701960.2015.1079707. Epub 2015 Aug 7.
PubMed 26251869Di Martino G, Della Valle C, Centorbi M, Buonsenso A, Fiorilli G, Crova C, di Cagno A, Calcagno G, Iuliano E. Bridging Generations Through Movement: "How and Why" Intergenerational Programs Operate-A Systematic and Narrative Review. Geriatrics (Basel). 2024 Oct 22;9(6):139. doi: 10.3390/geriatrics9060139.
PubMed 39449376Bruce ML. Psychosocial risk factors for depressive disorders in late life. Biol Psychiatry. 2002 Aug 1;52(3):175-84. doi: 10.1016/s0006-3223(02)01410-5.
PubMed 12182924Barbosa, M. R., Campinho, A., & Silva, G. (2021). "give and receive": The impact of an intergenerational program on institutionalized children and older adults. Journal of Intergenerational Relationships, 19(3), 283-304.
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 5 Mar 2025. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Design and Development of Strategies for Improving the Quality of Service and Utilization of Sporting and Recreational Places in the Municipality of Mashhad With the Approach to Elderly-Friendly City
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT06860126
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- ESPIRE-M / IR-IAU-MSHD.REC.1397.027
- Conditions
- Aged, Quality of Life, Mental Health
- Keywords
- Intergenerational Interaction, Age-Friendly City, Recreational Sports Facilities, Elderly Participation in Sports, Quality of Life in Seniors, Service Quality in Sports Facilities, SERVQUAL Questionnaire, SWOT Analysis for Elderly Sports
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 384 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Zinat EbrahimiUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 5 Sep 2018 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 15 Oct 2018 (actual)
- Study completion
- 12 Feb 2019 (actual)
- First posted
- 5 Mar 2025 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
This interventional study aims to design strategies to improve service quality and productivity in recreational sports facilities in Mashhad Municipality, focusing on creating an age-friendly city. The research consists of two parts: fieldwork and an experimental section.
Field Section:
- Assess seniors' perceptions of services using the SERVQUAL questionnaire and other tools.
- Conduct a SWOT analysis to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats related to elderly sports participation.
Experimental Section:
Evaluate the impact of intergenerational sports activities on elderly participants (aged 60+). Participants were paired with younger individuals and randomly allocated to five groups, including a control group.
Group Tasks:
- Control Group: 78 seniors continued daily routines without structured activities.
- Experimental Groups:
- Non-sport intergenerational interaction sessions (90 minutes, 3x/week).
- Intergenerational yoga sessions (90 minutes, 3x/week).
- Light aerobic exercises + group discussions (90 minutes, 3x/week).
- Non-exercise intergenerational sessions in a park (90 minutes, 3x/week).
- Non-exercise intergenerational sessions in a nursing home (90 minutes, 3x/week). Field Study Sample:
- 384 customers of Mashhad Municipality sports facilities (192 women, 192 men).
Key Notes:
- Elderly participants were selected through cluster sampling; younger participants were purposively sampled from Mashhad's Islamic Azad University.
- Gender balance (50% women, 50% men) was maintained in all groups.
Main Questions:
- How do service quality factors influence customers of Mashhad Municipality sports facilities?
- Do intergenerational programs improve quality of life, health, and well-being for seniors?
- What are the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats for elderly sports participation?
- What strategies can enhance elderly participation in sports?
Detailed description
- Data Collection Instruments
The following questionnaires will be utilized to achieve the research objectives:
- Demographic Characteristics Questionnaire: Includes variables such as age, gender, marital status, income, education level, occupation, and number of children.
- Socio-economic Status Questionnaire: Assesses various dimensions of socio-economic status.
- World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire: Measures quality of life based on established criteria.
- Elderly Depression Questionnaire: Assesses depression levels among elderly participants.
- General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28): A self-administered tool examining overall health, focusing on non-psychotic disorders.
- Parent-Child Relationship Scale: Evaluates the dynamics of relationships between parents and their children.
- Student Depression Questionnaire: Measures depression levels among university students.
- Service Quality Questionnaire: Assesses the quality of services provided.
- Facility Checklist and Productivity Index Checklist: Tools for evaluating facility conditions and efficiency.
- World Health Organization Age-Friendly City Criteria Questionnaire: Assesses compliance with age-friendly city standards.
- Study Population and Sample Selection
The study population includes two groups:
- Elderly Participants: Individuals aged 60 years and older residing in Mashhad. Recruitment will occur through public announcements and notices in locations such as parks and mosques, aiming to enroll 150 elderly individuals using purposive and convenient sampling.
- Young Participants: Students aged 20 to 24 years enrolled at Islamic Azad University. A total of 100 students (50 male, 50 female) will be recruited through public announcements and notices posted in all faculties during the academic year 2017-2018.
After collecting demographic data and completing questionnaires, elderly participants will be randomly assigned to three groups: two experimental groups and one control group. The sample size is based on experimental research designs, with a larger number selected to enhance generalizability and reduce dropout rates.
- Limitations of the Study
- Lack of accurate data on the number of active elderly individuals and their participation levels in regular sports activities.
- Cultural barriers limiting women's participation in community activities.
- Limited access to organizations specializing in elderly issues, restricting the ability to obtain a representative sample.
- Ethical Considerations
- Participants will be informed about the study's objectives and methodology before participation.
- Informed consent will be obtained from all participants.
- Confidentiality of personal information will be maintained.
- Private interpretations of results will be offered to interested individuals.
- No financial burden will be imposed on participants.
- The study will comply with religious and cultural standards relevant to participants and the broader community.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Prevention
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Double blind (participant, outcomes assessor)
- Number of arms
- 6
- Model description
- This study employs a Parallel Group interventional study model within a semi-experimental design framework. The methodology consists of two descriptive-correlational studies and a pre-test/post-test design with a control group. Research Design Participants were randomly assigned to six distinct groups: five experimental groups focused on different activities (intergenerational interaction, yoga exercises, exercise and interaction, park activities, and nursing home interaction) and one control group that maintained regular daily activities. This design allows for direct comparison of outcomes across groups and effectively assesses the interventions' relative effectiveness. Study Population and Sample Selection The study targeted elderly individuals aged 60 years and older, totaling 22,481, along with young participants aged 20 to 24 from Islamic Azad University. A cluster sampling method was employed to recruit 180 elderly participants, evenly divided by gender, along with 150 young
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Experimental Group 1 | Experimental | Behavioral: Intergenerational Activity Program: This indicates a program that involves activities designed for interaction between older adults and younger participants* Tasks: Engage in 90-minute non-sport intergenerational interaction sessions, three times weekly for three months, in a controlled indoor environment. Activities include paired interactions and group discussions. * Participants: 60 seniors (30 women, 30 men) and 60 younger individuals (30 women, 30 men, average age 21.45 ± 0.35 years). |
| Experimental Group 2 | Experimental | Behavioral: Yoga and Mindfulness Sessions* Tasks: Participate in 90-minute intergenerational yoga sessions, three times weekly for three months, in a gym setting. Sessions include warm-up, yoga exercises (asanas and pranayama), and relaxation. * Participants: 60 seniors (30 women, 30 men) and 60 younger individuals (30 women, 30 men). |
| Experimental Group 3 | Experimental | Behavioral: Physical Exercise and Storytelling* Tasks: Engage in 60-minute light aerobic exercises in a park, followed by 30-minute group discussions, three times weekly for three months. * Participants: 60 seniors (30 women, 30 men) and 60 younger individuals (30 women, 30 men). |
| Experimental Group 4 | Experimental | Behavioral: Outdoor Interaction Games* Tasks: Participate in 90-minute non-exercise intergenerational interaction sessions in a park, focusing on group discussions and storytelling. * Participants: 60 seniors (30 women, 30 men) and 60 younger individuals (30 women, 30 men). |
| Experimental Group 5 | Experimental | Behavioral: Social Visits to Nursing Homes* Tasks: Engage in 90-minute non-exercise intergenerational interaction sessions in a nursing home, focusing on group discussions and storytelling. * Participants: 60 seniors (30 women, 30 men) and 60 younger individuals (30 women, 30 men). |
| Control Group | Other | Other: control group* Tasks: Continue daily routines without intergenerational interaction or structured activities. * Participants: 78 seniors (39 women, 39 men) selected through stratified random sampling. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 60 years and older
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Adult, Older adult
Key inclusion criteria (11 listed)
- Aged 60 years or older.
- Ability to engage in physical activities.
- Absence of sensory or motor disabilities.
- No use of antidepressant medications.
- No history of conditions such as Alzheimer's or other illnesses that could pose risks during exercise.
Key exclusion criteria (3 listed)
- Irregular attendance (more than two absences).
- Physical or psychological issues hindering participation.
- Lack of willingness to continue.
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Intergenerational Activity Program: This indicates a program that involves activities designed for interaction between older adults and younger participantsEngage in 90-minute intergenerational interaction sessions, three times a week for three months, in a controlled indoor environment. * Spend the first 45 minutes actively interacting with a younger participant in pairs, collaborating on activities of interest to the senior. * Participate in group activities such as book reading, puzzles, joke-telling, and sharing experiences for the remaining 45 minutes. * Attend 36 sessions held on odd days in the main hall of the Neshat Center. * Gender Representation: * 60 participants (30 women and 30 men) aged 60 and above, selected through stratified random sampling from Mashhad's elderly population. * 60 younger participants (30 women and 30 men) with an average age of 21.45 ± 0.35 years, selected through purposive sampling from Mashhad's Islamic Azad University. | Behavioural | Experimental Group 1 |
| Yoga and Mindfulness SessionsParticipate in 90-minute intergenerational yoga sessions, three times a week for three months, in a gym setting. * Perform modified yoga exercises suitable for seniors, including: * 20 minutes of warm-up with stretching and joint rotations. * 50 minutes of main exercises (asanas and pranayama). * 20 minutes of relaxation and meditation (Shavasana). * Attend sessions on odd days at 9 AM in the Neshat Center yoga hall. * Gender Representation: * 60 participants (30 women and 30 men) aged 60 and above, selected through stratified random sampling from Mashhad's elderly population. * 60 younger participants (30 women and 30 men) with an average age of 21.45 ± 0.35 years, selected through purposive sampling from Mashhad's Islamic Azad University. | Behavioural | Experimental Group 2 |
| Physical Exercise and StorytellingEngage in 60-minute light aerobic exercises, three times a week for three months, in a park setting. * Follow warm-up and aerobic exercises led by a senior fitness instructor. * Spend 30 minutes in a friendly group discussion, sharing experiences and memories with younger participants. * Attend sessions on even days at 9 AM in Mashhad's Mellat Park. * Gender Representation: * 60 participants (30 women and 30 men) aged 60 and above, selected through stratified random sampling from Mashhad's elderly population. * 60 younger participants (30 women and 30 men) with an average age of 21.45 ± 0.35 years, selected through purposive sampling from Mashhad's Islamic Azad University. | Behavioural | Experimental Group 3 |
| Outdoor Interaction GamesParticipate in 90-minute intergenerational interaction sessions, three times a week for three months, in a park setting. * Engage in non-exercise activities such as group discussions, storytelling, and sharing experiences with younger participants. * Attend sessions on even days at 9 AM in Mashhad's Mellat Park. * Gender Representation: * 60 participants (30 women and 30 men) aged 60 and above, selected through stratified random sampling from Mashhad's elderly population. * 60 younger participants (30 women and 30 men) with an average age of 21.45 ± 0.35 years, selected through purposive sampling from Mashhad's Islamic Azad University. | Behavioural | Experimental Group 4 |
| Social Visits to Nursing HomesEngage in 90-minute intergenerational interaction sessions, three times a week for three months, in a nursing home setting. * Participate in non-exercise activities such as group discussions, storytelling, and sharing experiences with younger participants. * Attend sessions on odd days at 9 AM in the nursing home. * Gender Representation: * 60 participants (30 women and 30 men) aged 60 and above, selected through stratified random sampling from Mashhad's elderly population. * 60 younger participants (30 women and 30 men) with an average age of 21.45 ± 0.35 years, selected through purposive sampling from Mashhad's Islamic Azad University. | Behavioural | Experimental Group 5 |
| control groupContinue with their daily routines without participating in any intergenerational interaction or structured activities. * No specific interventions or programs are provided. * Gender Representation: * 78 participants (39 women and 39 men) aged 60 and above, selected through stratified random sampling from Mashhad's elderly population. | Other | Control Group |
Primary outcome
Effects of Intergenerational Interventions on Quality of Life Effects of Intergenerational Interventions on Quality of Life Effects of Intergenerational Interventions on Quality of Life
Time frame: Baseline and after a 3-month intervention period.
Quality of Life (QOL) was assessed using the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire (Short Form), a 26-item tool measuring four dimensions: physical health, psychological health, social relationships, and environment. Items are rated on a 6-point scale, with scores converted to a 0-100 scale. Higher scores indicate better QOL. * Pre-Test Scores: * Physical Health: Range = 12.5-68.75 * Psychological: Range = 31.25-62.5 * Social Relationships: Range = 37.5-50 * Environment: Range = 25-62.5 * Post-Test Scores: * Physical Health: Range = 25-68.75 * Psychological: Range = 18.75-62.5 * Social Relationships: Range = 28.125-46.875 * Environment: Range = 12.5-37.5 * Results: * Physical health: 41.53 (baseline) → 70.97 (post-intervention). * Psychological: 40.93 → 63.31. * Social relationships: 42.94 → 50.20. * Environment: 44.15 → 52.62.
Effects of Intergenerational Interventions on Mental Health (General Health)
Time frame: Baseline and after a 3-month intervention period.
Mental health was assessed using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28), a 28-item tool evaluating physical symptoms, anxiety, social functioning, and depression. Items are scored from 0 to 3, with total scores ranging from 0-84. Higher scores indicate greater psychological distress. Pre-test Scores: Somatic symptoms: 4-21 Anxiety and sleep disorder: 2-21 Social function: 7-21 Depression symptoms: 9-21 Total: 29-70 Post-test Scores: Somatic symptoms: 5-21 Anxiety and sleep disorder: 1-21 Social function: 7-20 Depression symptoms: 7-21 Total: 30-68 * Somatic symptoms: 13.61 (baseline) → 8.78 (post-intervention). * Anxiety and sleep disorder: 13.62 → 7.27. * Social function: 15.48 → 11.95. * Depression symptoms: 13.57 → 6.63.
Effects of Intergenerational Interventions on Depression Levels
Time frame: Measurements were taken at baseline and after a 3-month intervention period.
Depression levels were measured using the Geriatric Depression Scale (Short Form), a 15-item binary response questionnaire specifically designed for the elderly. Scores range from 0-15, with higher scores indicating greater depression. Pre-test Scores: 8-15 Post-test Scores: 5-14
Results and safety
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 5 Mar 2025.
- BackgroundEbrahimi, Zinat. Helen Nazary, Parivash Piraki. (2023). The Service Quality of Sport-entertainment Facilities of Mashhad Municipality with the Approach of an Elderly-friendly City in 2018 (Persian). Journal of Gerontology (joge), 7(4): 89-100. DOI: 10.22034/JOGE.7.4.8. https://joge.ir/article-1-618-fa.html
- BackgroundVeisi, K. Ismailzadeh Ghandehary, M.R. Ebrahimi, Z. (2023). Comparing the Effectiveness of Interventions of Intergenerational Interaction and Physical Activities on Depression of Elderly Women and Men (Persian). Journal of Gerontology (joge). 8(1): 10-19. https://joge.ir/article-1-620-fa.html
- BackgroundEbrahimi Z, Esmaeilzadeh Ghandehary MR, Veisi K. Comparing the efficacy of Yoga exercise and intergenerational interaction program on mental health of elderly. J Research & Health2019; 9(5): 401- 410.
- Background: PubMed 29355886Eshun-Wilson I, Siegfried N, Akena DH, Stein DJ, Obuku EA, Joska JA. Antidepressants for depression in adults with HIV infection. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2018 Jan 22;1(1):CD008525. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD008525.pub3.
- Background: PubMed 25468152Steptoe A, Deaton A, Stone AA. Subjective wellbeing, health, and ageing. Lancet. 2015 Feb 14;385(9968):640-648. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(13)61489-0. Epub 2014 Nov 6.
- Background: PubMed 30627555Santini S, Tombolesi V, Baschiera B, Lamura G. Intergenerational Programs Involving Adolescents, Institutionalized Elderly, and Older Volunteers: Results from a Pilot Research-Action in Italy. Biomed Res Int. 2018 Dec 5;2018:4360305. doi: 10.1155/2018/4360305. eCollection 2018.
- Background: PubMed 25010219Murayama Y, Ohba H, Yasunaga M, Nonaka K, Takeuchi R, Nishi M, Sakuma N, Uchida H, Shinkai S, Fujiwara Y. The effect of intergenerational programs on the mental health of elderly adults. Aging Ment Health. 2015;19(4):306-14. doi: 10.1080/13607863.2014.933309. Epub 2014 Jul 10.
- Background: PubMed 30727981Murayama Y, Murayama H, Hasebe M, Yamaguchi J, Fujiwara Y. The impact of intergenerational programs on social capital in Japan: a randomized population-based cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health. 2019 Feb 6;19(1):156. doi: 10.1186/s12889-019-6480-3.
- Background: PubMed 30823911Mosor E, Waldherr K, Kjeken I, Omara M, Ritschl V, Pinter-Theiss V, Smolen J, Hubel U, Stamm T. An intergenerational program based on psycho-motor activity promotes well-being and interaction between preschool children and older adults: results of a process and outcome evaluation study in Austria. BMC Public Health. 2019 Mar 1;19(1):254. doi: 10.1186/s12889-019-6572-0.
- Background: PubMed 18537197Luanaigh CO, Lawlor BA. Loneliness and the health of older people. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry. 2008 Dec;23(12):1213-21. doi: 10.1002/gps.2054.
- Background: PubMed 21615702Kamei T, Itoi W, Kajii F, Kawakami C, Hasegawa M, Sugimoto T. Six month outcomes of an innovative weekly intergenerational day program with older adults and school-aged children in a Japanese urban community. Jpn J Nurs Sci. 2011 Jun;8(1):95-107. doi: 10.1111/j.1742-7924.2010.00164.x. Epub 2010 Dec 9.
- Background: PubMed 26251869Halpin SN, Dillard RL, Idler E, Clevenger C, Rothschild E, Blanton S, Wilson J, Flacker JM. The benefits of being a senior mentor: Cultivating resilience through the mentorship of health professions students. Gerontol Geriatr Educ. 2017 Jul-Sep;38(3):283-294. doi: 10.1080/02701960.2015.1079707. Epub 2015 Aug 7.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No. Due to persistent technical difficulties in providing a functional web address for the IPD sharing plan on the clinical trial site, interested parties are encouraged to contact zin368@gmail.com for further information. We have encountered issues that prevent the proper display or access of the sharing link, necessitating this alternative means of communication.
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
Dr. Zinat Ebrahimi, Professor principal investigator
Physical Education and Sport, Islamic Azad Sanandaj, Iran.
2 sites in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Intergenerational Activity Program: This indicates a program that involves activities designed for interaction between older adults and younger participants, Yoga and Mindfulness Sessions and Physical Exercise and Storytelling in people with Aged and Quality of Life, run by Zinat Ebrahimi at 2 sites in Iran.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 11 inclusion and 3 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 5 Mar 2025. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 2 sites in Iran. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Effects of Intergenerational Interventions on Quality of Life Effects of Intergenerational Interventions on Quality of Life Effects of Intergenerational Interventions on Quality of Life (time frame: Baseline and after a 3-month intervention period.). The study lists 3 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
On the ClinicalTrials.gov record for NCT06860126, which also lists 17 linked publications.
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 5 Mar 2025.