CATCH-ON Connect: a tablet intervention to address social isolation and loneliness

Abstract

Technology can aid in alleviating social isolation and loneliness among older adults, however some older adults lack the knowledge and necessary skills to use the technology. Objectives The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of CATCH-ON Connect, a cellular enabled tablet technical assistance program, on social isolation and loneliness among older adults. Methods This is a single-group pre-post program evaluation of the CATCH-ON Connect program. Results While there was no statistically significant change in social isolation, older adult participants reported significantly lower levels of loneliness following intervention. Conclusion This project demonstrates that tablet programs with technical assistance may benefit older adults. Further investigation is warranted to determine the impact of the internet access itself, the technical assistance, or both.