The effect of Digital Inclusion for Active Living (DIAL) program for community-dwelling older adults on loneliness and social isolation: a quasi-experimental study

BACKGROUND: Digital inclusion has been recognised as a potential strategy to mitigate loneliness and social isolation among older adults. However, limited studies have explored comprehensive interventions targeting digital access, use, literacy and social participation. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of the Digital Inclusion for Active Living (DIAL) program in reducing loneliness and social isolation among community-dwelling older adults. METHODS: A quasi-experimental study was conducted with older adults. Participants were assigned to either an intervention group (receiving the 6-month DIAL program, integrating digital skills training, social networking support and health education) or a control group. Primary outcomes were loneliness measured with the 20-item University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Loneliness Scale, and social isolation measured with the Lubben Social Network Scale-6. Secondary outcomes included digital inclusion and social capital. Data were collected at baseline, 3 months and 6 months. The intention-to-treat principle was used to compare the effects of intervention between the two groups. This trial is registered with ChiCTR registry (ChiCTR2400081199, registration date: 20 February 2024). RESULTS: Between 11 March 2024, and 30 September 2024, 126 eligible participants (63 per group) were assessed. The mean age of participants was 70.1 years (SD = 6.24), and 54 (42.9%) were men. The intervention group showed significant reduction in loneliness (B = -0.894, 95% CI = -1.55, -0.24) and improved social network scores (B = 0.394, 95% CI = 0.01, 0.77) versus controls. Time-group interactions revealed sustained improvements in loneliness (B = -2.032, 95% CI = -3.50, -0.56) and social isolation (B = 1.000, 95% CI = 0.28, 1.72) for the intervention group. Secondary outcomes demonstrated increased digital inclusion, social capital and reduced problematic Internet use. CONCLUSION: The DIAL program was associated with alleviating loneliness and social isolation while enhancing digital inclusion and social capital among older adults. A multifaceted approach combining digital access, literacy and social engagement may improve mental health in ageing populations. Future research should employ randomised trials with larger, more diverse samples to confirm long-term benefits.