Matthew S. Kaplan

Matthew S. Kaplan is a Professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics, Sociology, and Education at Pennsylvania State University. He specializes in intergenerational programs and aging, focusing on strategies to strengthen relationships across generations in diverse settings such as early childhood centers, retirement communities, and civic spaces. His research integrates environmental design, community planning, and family dynamics to promote healthy aging and social inclusion.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Environmental Psychology, City University of New York Graduate Center
• M.A. in Psychology, Hunter College
• B.A. in Psychology, State University of New York at Stony Brook

Research Interests: Dr. Kaplan's work spans four key areas: intergenerational strategies for specific settings, community planning for civic engagement, intergenerational family communication, and program/policy development. He emphasizes the design of 'contact zones'—places fostering intergenerational interaction—and has contributed to global initiatives in Japan, Spain, China, and the U.S.

Publications Trends: His recent work explores urban intergenerational spaces (e.g., La Plazuela in Spain), program feasibility criteria, and cross-cultural practices in aging societies. He frequently collaborates internationally, with studies analyzing China’s aging challenges and Hong Kong’s ESL programs.

Grants & Advising: As Penn State’s leader in intergenerational Extension initiatives, he develops programs for Extension educators, trains professionals, and evaluates volunteer-based models like the Intergenerational Leadership Institute. He teaches an online course on intergenerational programs and aging.

Labs & Teams: Directs the Penn State Intergenerational Program, collaborating with global partners to disseminate evidence-based strategies. Key projects include FRIDGE nutrition education and technology-mediated intergenerational dialogue.