Promotion of social participation and prevention of loneliness among Ridderkerk older adults
Projectomschrijving
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Samenvatting van de aanvraag
Loneliness in older adults is viewed as a serious social and health problem. Many
loneliness-preventing activities exist at the local level, e.g. support groups and socio-cultural
activities. These activities can meet the older adults' need for information, instrumental support,
leisure activities and emotional support, however one can question whether these activities reach
the people really in need for prevention of loneliness. An assessment is made of the needs for
loneliness-preventing activities among older adults. Moreover, an evaluation study is conducted into
the process and effect of an intervention, tailoring loneliness-preventing activities to the needs of
the older adults and their subsequent participation in loneliness-preventing activities. Outcome
variables are perceived social support, social participation, perceived loneliness and psychological
health. All single independent living inhabitants of the Ridderkerk neighbourhood of Slikkerveer are
in a baseline interview asked to consent to participate in the evaluation study and to be visited by a
home visitor. A randomized controlled design is used in the evaluation study and measurements are
conducted at three and nine months follow-up.