Reducing loneliness and depressive symptoms in older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic: A pre-post evaluation of a psychosocial online intervention.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Loneliness is related to worse mental health, particularly in people with poor social support. The COVID-19 pandemic altered our lives and ways of social interaction, especially among vulnerable populations such as older adults.

Methods

We designed a group-based psychosocial online intervention for older adults (≥ 65 years) facilitated by gerontologists addressing loneliness consisting of: (i) sharing experiences and promoting peer support to overcome feelings of loneliness and (ii) increasing the chances of establishing successful social relationships. This was a feasibility non-controlled prospective pilot study carried out during the COVID-19 pandemic with a pre-post evaluation. Interviews before and after the intervention assessed loneliness (emotional and soc

SUBMITTER: Gabarrell-Pascuet A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11642987 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature