Intergenerational Mediation

Intergenerational Mediation, also know as Elder Mediation, is the mediation of any conflict or disagreement involving an older adult. Mediation’s inherent nature — private, informal, supportive and non-confrontational — makes it particularly appropriate in these kinds of situations.

The flexibility of the process, in terms of who can attend and where a mediation can be held (i.e. location and participants), is also "elder-friendly”. Unlike more formal court-based processes that generally involve only the actual parties to a dispute, mediation allows for a range of people to be involved in the discussion. Since quite often the root of the problem lies beyond the actual parties to the disagreement and the specific issue in dispute, the participation of a number of people (such as family members and friends) goes a long way to resolving the problem in a true and lasting way. An older adult may also feel more comfortable and confident engaging in difficult discussions where others — such as friends, family members, or members of the clergy — are present to give support.

Issues mediated include:   

· retirement

· driving

· housing and living arrangements

· health care (at home, in the hospital, or in continuing care and long-term care communities)

· medical decisions

· nursing home decisions

· safety and environment

· abuse and neglect

· care for the caregiver as well as caregiver burden

· relationship concerns (this includes intergenerational relationships as well as new marriages and stepfamily situations)

· religious issues

· holiday schedules

· financial concerns

· estate planning

· family business

· guardianship

· end of life issues