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Digital Connections with Loved Ones
Highlights
- Evidence: Limited research directly measures the impact of digital connections with loved ones on social isolation and loneliness in older adults.
- Effectiveness: Some reductions in loneliness were observed, but these were not statistically significant.
- Implementation: Effective delivery includes assessing individual needs, providing training and support, maintaining regular engagement, and ensuring access to digital tools for all participants.
- Future Research: More randomized trials with larger sample sizes, longer interventions, longer follow-up, and focus on equity-seeking groups are needed.
Is it effective?
How much does it cost?
How much does it cost?
Some decreases in loneliness were seen with this intervention, but the changes were not statistically significant at the different follow-up time points.
The study included adults aged 18 and older from six countries: Taiwan, the Netherlands, Sweden, the United States, the United Kingdom, and South Africa.
How much does it cost?
How much does it cost?
How much does it cost?
On average, the cost of digital connections is likely medium.
These programs use common digital tools such as social media, video-calling platforms (e.g., Skype, Zoom), and messaging apps (e.g., WhatsApp). Many of these services are free or have low subscription fees and can be used on devices like smartphones, tablets, or computers that participants may already own. The main requirement is internet access, which is widely available and generally affordable.
How strong is the evidence?
Our confidence in the estimated reduction in social isolation and loneliness is very low.
There was higher certainty in the results at 3 and 6 months after the intervention, but very low certainty at 4 months. This uncertainty is due to publication bias and imprecision.
Given this low level of certainty, the findings should be interpreted with caution, and additional high-quality research may be needed to confirm the results.
How can you implement it well?
To implement this intervention effectively, consider the following strategies:
Assess individual needs: Start with an initial assessment to choose digital tools and platforms that match each participant’s needs and preferences.
Provide training and ongoing support: Offer clear training for participants and caregivers on how to use the technology, along with continued technical support to help resolve any issues.
Facilitate regular engagement: Schedule regular video calls and online activities using video and messaging platforms (e.g., Skype or WhatsApp) to support consistent social interaction.
Ensure accessibility: Choose user-friendly tools with simple interfaces, such as EasyPC, so participants with different levels of digital experience can use the technology comfortably.