Internet Programming to Reduce Loneliness and Social Isolation in Aging

Loneliness and social isolation in older adults carry mortality risks similar to cigarette smoking. The study aim was to use a Culturally Informed Healthy Aging (CIHA) assessment process in Housing and Urban Development (HUD) communities of older adults (N = 262). Through the CIHA assessment process, older adults identified pertinent health problems and the study team developed a health intervention, an Internet Information Station (IIS). The IIS pilot study included computer lesson participation (n = 261), written feedback (n = 42), and the revised University of California, Los Angeles (R-UCLA) Loneliness Scale (n = 11). Increased confidence with technology and connectedness were reported, and a significant difference in "There is no one I can turn to" was observed (IIS compared to non-IIS). The IIS remains an active site for interaction 1-year post intervention. These pilot results supplement the research on older adult engagement in problem identification, intervention design, and outcomes measurement. TARGET: Older adults living in HUD communities. INTERVENTION DESCRIPTION: Through CIHA assessment, health problems were identified, and the IIS was developed and implemented. MECHANISMS OF ACTION: Lessons were developed (e.g., computer basics, connecting with technology, open forum) and evaluated. Pre and post lesson, the R-UCLA Loneliness Scale measured social isolation and loneliness. OUTCOMES: Older adults were engaged in problem identification, program development, and implementation. Feelings of connectedness improved; however, program evaluation with the R-UCLA scale was difficult to obtain. [Research in Gerontological Nursing, 13(5), 233-242.].