Authors' Affiliations

Erin Mauck, Community and Behavioral Health, College of Public Health, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN.

Location

D.P. Culp Center Ballroom

Start Date

4-5-2024 9:00 AM

End Date

4-5-2024 11:30 AM

Poster Number

59

Name of Project's Faculty Sponsor

Jodi L Southerland, DrPH L Southerland

Faculty Sponsor's Department

Community and Behavioral Health

Classification of First Author

Graduate Student-Master’s

Competition Type

Competitive

Type

Poster Presentation

Presentation Category

Health

Abstract or Artist's Statement

Background: Social isolation and loneliness are significant public health challenges that impact the well-being of older adults. Evidence-based strategies to address social isolation and loneliness have emerged slowly, particularly in rural communities. Objective: To examine the different strategies published to help older adults living in rural areas in the United States cope with loneliness and social isolation after the COVID-19 outbreak. Additionally, we aim to present a comprehensive approach to prevent loneliness and social isolation by utilizing the socio-ecological framework model. Methods: We conducted a literature review using MEDLINE and PsycINFO to identify studies on social isolation and loneliness interventions targeting rural older adults in the United States. Two qualitative, four systematic reviews and seven quantitative studies published in English between 2019-2023 were included. The review process was guided by PRISMA. Results: Interventions at various levels of the socioecological model have been identified to address social isolation and loneliness among older adults residing in rural areas. These interventions include promoting social engagement, implementing intergenerational programs, and improving transportation and digital connectivity. Healthcare providers can contribute by offering regular telephone outreach and screenings. Community-defined policy-level interventions are required to ensure accessible and affordable housing and funding for home maintenance. Conclusion: To combat social isolation and loneliness, we suggest implementing a multi-system approach that addresses all relevant factors at each level of the socio-ecological model. The public healthcare system can lead and guide this effort.

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Apr 5th, 9:00 AM Apr 5th, 11:30 AM

Public Health Strategies to Address Social Isolation and Loneliness Among Rural Older Adults. A Mini-Review of the Literature

D.P. Culp Center Ballroom

Background: Social isolation and loneliness are significant public health challenges that impact the well-being of older adults. Evidence-based strategies to address social isolation and loneliness have emerged slowly, particularly in rural communities. Objective: To examine the different strategies published to help older adults living in rural areas in the United States cope with loneliness and social isolation after the COVID-19 outbreak. Additionally, we aim to present a comprehensive approach to prevent loneliness and social isolation by utilizing the socio-ecological framework model. Methods: We conducted a literature review using MEDLINE and PsycINFO to identify studies on social isolation and loneliness interventions targeting rural older adults in the United States. Two qualitative, four systematic reviews and seven quantitative studies published in English between 2019-2023 were included. The review process was guided by PRISMA. Results: Interventions at various levels of the socioecological model have been identified to address social isolation and loneliness among older adults residing in rural areas. These interventions include promoting social engagement, implementing intergenerational programs, and improving transportation and digital connectivity. Healthcare providers can contribute by offering regular telephone outreach and screenings. Community-defined policy-level interventions are required to ensure accessible and affordable housing and funding for home maintenance. Conclusion: To combat social isolation and loneliness, we suggest implementing a multi-system approach that addresses all relevant factors at each level of the socio-ecological model. The public healthcare system can lead and guide this effort.