Approaches to enhance social connection in older adults: an integrative review of literature

Abstract

Social connection is essential throughout a person's lifespan. A robust body of scientific evidence has shown that lacking social connection is an indicator of premature mortality comparable to many leading health indicators. Little is known about approaches that enhance social connection in older adults. Most interventions were psychosocial therapies targeting interpersonal relationships or reducing social isolation and loneliness. This integrative review examines the approaches that enhance social connection related to health and well-being in older adults. The CINAHL, Embase, Medline, PsycInfo, and the Cochrane Library were searched between 2008 to 2021. Sixteen articles met our inclusion criteria and four approaches were categorized: (1) intergenerational programs between younger and older generations, (2) aging-friendly neighborhoods or communities, (3) community-based group physical activities, and (4) technology. The identified approaches would potentially inform early interventions focusing on enhancing social connection for individuals and at a community level. Early interventions should include diverse activities enabling new social networks to be formed and to maintain a social connection with others face-to-face or through the use of technology.