Promotion of social participation and prevention of loneliness among Ridderkerk older adults

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.