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Seeking a Sense of Belonging
Elena Portacolone1, Julene K Johnson2, Jodi Halpern3
1Institute for Health & Aging University of California San Francisco (UCSF), USA.
Generations (San Francisco, Calif.)
|August 16, 2023
Summary
This study offers recommendations to reduce social isolation in older adults by fostering a sense of belonging. Interventions can help isolated seniors feel more connected to their communities.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Social Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Social isolation in older adults is a significant public health concern.
- Lack of social integration negatively impacts well-being and quality of life for seniors.
- Existing interventions require refinement to effectively address the complex issue of senior isolation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide evidence-based recommendations for policymakers, researchers, and professionals to decrease social isolation in older adults.
- To highlight the critical role of fostering a sense of belonging in mitigating social isolation.
- To suggest systematic interventions for enhancing community belonging among isolated seniors.
Main Methods:
- The study synthesizes findings from the authors' investigations.
- It incorporates insights from American and Italian intervention programs.
- Recommendations are developed based on a review of successful strategies for social integration.
Main Results:
- Fostering a sense of belonging is identified as a key strategy to combat social isolation.
- Systematic interventions can be effectively leveraged to increase community integration.
- The article provides actionable recommendations for various stakeholders.
Conclusions:
- Reducing social isolation in older adults requires a multi-faceted approach centered on belonging.
- Policy makers and professionals should implement targeted interventions to enhance seniors' community ties.
- Further research and systematic efforts are needed to improve social integration and well-being in the aging population.
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