Evaluation of a Gamification-Based Intervention to Enhance Intergenerational Communication: Pre-Post Mixed Methods Evaluation

Background: Intergenerational communication has been recognized as a key factor in enhancing social connections among older adults by improving the quality of interactions, which is a crucial component of healthy aging. However, effective interventions to foster intergenerational communication and engagement remain scarce at this stage. Objective: This study examined the effects of a gamification intervention for intergenerational dialogue on intergenerational communication and health-related capacity across 3 age cohorts and further analyzed the differential impacts of intervention characteristics on the game experience, in terms of satisfaction and engagement. Methods: A 2-stage exploratory method was adopted with a cocreation approach to develop a theoretical framework of intergenerational dialogue for the gamification-based intervention, the Healthy Aging in Dialogue Tabletop Game, followed by a mixed methods study involving pre- and postintervention surveys and qualitative interviews to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention in the young (aged 18-39 years), middle-aged (aged 40-64 years), and older adult (aged ≥65 years) groups. Intergenerational communication was assessed using tools measuring satisfaction and competence, whereas health-related capacity was evaluated using health literacy and patient enablement tools. Results: A total of 68 respondents completed the intervention and evaluation, with 23, 14, and 31 respondents in the young, middle-aged, and older adult groups, respectively. This intergenerational intervention yielded notable benefits in intergenerational communication satisfaction (Cohen d=0.745), communication competence (Cohen d=0.377), and health literacy (Cohen d=0.409), especially among older adults. Patient enablement was significantly higher in older adults (mean score 6.10, SD 2.18) than in young adults (mean score 4.22) (P=.04). In addition, this study highlighted the importance of leveraging gamification to enhance intergenerational communication and engagement, ultimately combating social isolation among older adults. Conclusions: The intergenerational dialogue tabletop game provided an enjoyable platform for cross-generational dialogue and enhanced each age group's communication competence, allowing participants to contribute and learn from one another. The findings provide additional evidence for aging research and shed light on approaches to foster social interaction and connection, thereby promoting health and active aging.