Intervention in the Loneliness of the Elderly—What Strategies, Challenges and Rewards?

Abstract

Abstract:The new challenges that the phenomenon of demographic aging imposes on society in general, and health services in particular, can impact active and healthy aging. The project was implemented for two years (2012/2013) and aimed to combat loneliness in the elderly, which constitutes an obstacle to healthy and active aging. Decrease the sense of loneliness of individuals from 65 to 84 years of age, the project was made by using the health planning methodology, starting with a descriptive study (health diagnosis of the independent elderly population) followed by the development, implementation and evaluation of a community intervention project, which included home visits to the elderly, assessment of the level of loneliness in two different times (UCLA scale) and various intergenerational activities of social life (dancing, walking, online courses, games...) using a cross-section of partnerships and community involvement. There was a decrease from 62.8% to 41.9% in the reported overall feeling of loneliness of independent individuals between the ages of 65 and 84 years of age. There was an increase from 50.0% to 86.4% of seniors who now have dreams/life projects. The reduction of social and emotional isolation resulted in the promotion of social networks, which not only encouraged social interaction but also considered the elderly who live alone. The health gains arising from it are evidenced in contributing more proactively and the improvement of the quality of life in the elderly community.