Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Digital Technology Interventions to Reduce Loneliness in Older Adults: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Loneliness is a serious public health issue, and its burden is increasing in many countries. Loneliness affects social, physical, and mental health, and it is associated with multimorbidity and premature mortality. In addition to social interventions, a range of digital technology interventions (DTIs) are being used to tackle loneliness. However, there is limited evidence on the effectiveness of DTIs in reducing loneliness, especially in adults. The effectiveness of DTIs in reducing loneliness needs to be systematically assessed.

Objective

The objective of this study is to assess the effectiveness of DTIs in reducing loneliness in older adults.

Methods

We conducted electronic searches in PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, and Web of Science for empirical stud

SUBMITTER: Shah SGS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8214187 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature