Reducing loneliness and depressive symptoms in older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic: A pre-post evaluation of a psychosocial online intervention.

Abstract

BackgroundLoneliness is related to worse mental health, particularly in people with poor social support. The COVID-19 pandemic altered our lives and ways of social interaction, especially among vulnerable populations such as older adults.MethodsWe designed a group-based psychosocial online intervention for older adults (≥ 65 years) facilitated by gerontologists addressing loneliness consisting of: (i) sharing experiences and promoting peer support to overcome feelings of loneliness and (ii) increasing the chances of establishing successful social relationships. This was a feasibility non-controlled prospective pilot study carried out during the COVID-19 pandemic with a pre-post evaluation. Interviews before and after the intervention assessed loneliness (emotional and social), social support, depressive and anxiety symptoms, quality of life, and perceived health. Groups of 6-8 participants and 2 facilitators met once a week for 8 weeks through videoconferencing. The intervention effectiveness was assessed with multilevel models for repeated measures.ResultsThe study sample (N = 27) was mainly composed of females (74%) and the mean age was 74.26 years. 21 participants completed the intervention (22% drop-out rate). Statistically significant (pConclusionsInterventions overcoming social distancing restrictions through online tools and targeting vulnerable population sectors (e.g., older adults) can become essential to lessen the collateral consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on social behaviour and mental health.