Effect of a 12-week Community-based Intervention to Improve Social Capital, Quality of Life, Self-care, and Health Literacy among Older People

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this study was to assess the effect of a community-based intervention on social capital, quality of life, self-care, and health literacy among elderly. Materials and Methods: This quasi-experimental trial was conducted at two health-care centers in Isfahan, Iran, which assigned to the intervention and control groups. A total of 86 elderly (60 years or above) enrolled in the study. The intervention program consisted of 12 weekly group sessions with various health topics. Nine sessions held in the health-care center and three local tours in different locations of the neighborhood. The control group received routine care of health centers. Social capital, quality of life, self-care, and health literacy were assessed at baseline and 1 month after the intervention in two groups. Results: Mental component of quality of life ( P = 0.026), self-care, and health literacy ( P < 0.001) showed a significant increase in the intervention group compared to the control group at 1 month after the intervention. The total score of social capital and the dimensions of local community participation, social agency, feelings of security and trust, interactions with neighbors, and interactions with family and friends improved in the intervention group ( P < 0.001). However, there was no significant difference in the dimensions of tolerance of diversity ( P = 0.241) and value of life ( P = 0.928). Conclusions: This community-based interventions with a variety of diverse and participatory components can be used as a strategy to promote the health of the elderly in primary health care.

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Exploring the roles and functions of champions within community-based interventions to support older adults with chronic conditions: A scoping review protocol

“…Communitybased care often aligns with the preferences of older adults, who desire to age in their homes and communities [16]. Numerous community-based services exist for older adults with chronic conditions (e.g., [17][18][19][20][21]). Community-based interventions for older adults with chronic illness often aim to improve symptom and medication management [22] and mental health and wellbeing [23][24][25] or reduce health care utilization [10,25], while improving access to appropriate and timely care [26,27].…”

“…Community-based interventions for older adults with chronic illness often aim to improve symptom and medication management [22] and mental health and wellbeing [23][24][25] or reduce health care utilization [10,25], while improving access to appropriate and timely care [26,27]. The health services provided in the community range from targetted self-management or general health interventions including remote care monitoring [28,29] to physical activity, nutrition and active social participation interventions [21,30,31]. In addition, community-based interventions targeting chronic disease management provide specialized home-care services, including medication delivery, assistance with instrumental activities of daily living and complex patient care tasks [2,32,33].…”