Reducing loneliness amongst older people: a systematic search and narrative review.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the effectiveness of recent social therapeutic interventions to reduce loneliness in older people.


METHODS
To examine this matter, a literature review, using seven databases, was undertaken using search terms relating to the themes of ageing, loneliness and social support. A total of 17 relevant studies relating to loneliness interventions were analysed.


RESULTS
Three studies reporting on new technologies and one on a group work intervention identified significant reductions in loneliness.


CONCLUSIONS
Further research into interventions using new technologies to reduce loneliness in older people is recommended.
a School of Social Work , University of Ulster , Derry , Northern Ireland.
Robert
R
Hagan
Roger
R
Manktelow
Brian J
BJ
Taylor
John
J
Mallett
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000375:Aging; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008132:Loneliness / Q000523:psychology*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012944:Social Support
ageing; effectiveness; literature review; loneliness; older people; social isolation; social network; social support