Effects of a social Internet-based intervention programme for older adults : An explorative randomized crossover study

• Introduction: Restraints and changes in social activities might contribute to loneliness and health decline for older adults. To reduce loneliness and support activities, social internet-based interventions are indicated to be effective. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a social internet-based intervention for older adults who are vulnerable to loneliness.Method: An explorative, randomised, crossover study with an AB/BA sequence was completed. The intervention was conducted over a period of three months. Thirty participants were included (24 women and six men, 61-89 years old) and allocated to two groups. Data were collected at three time points. The primary outcome was the UCLA loneliness scale, and the secondary outcomes were satisfaction with social contacts and social interaction skills. Statistical analyses were conducted with the paired t-test, Wilcoxon's signed-rank test and repeated-measures analysis of variance.Results: Loneliness was significantly decreased in both groups post intervention, and satisfaction with social contacts online significantly increased in one group. Significant treatment effects were detected for all outcomes.Conclusion: The results of the social internet-based intervention programme are promising, but further evaluations are needed

Ämnesord

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Hälsovetenskap -- Arbetsterapi (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Health Sciences -- Occupational Therapy (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

Loneliness

social activities

social contacts

arbetsterapi

Occupational therapy

Occupational therapy

Publikations- och innehållstyp

ref (ämneskategori)

art (ämneskategori)