A social engagement technology-based randomized controlled trial for older adults: Outcomes and lessons learned

Loneliness and social isolation can negatively impact health, wellbeing, and quality of life of older adults. While social engagement supports social health, typical age-related changes (e.g., living arrangement, health) and cognitive decline can limit opportunities for participation in social activities. Videoconference technologies offer a promising solution to improve access and create cost effective opportunities for social engagement. However, there is limited understanding of the feasibility and efficacy of user-led social engagement interventions in group settings involving older adults who have varying cognitive abilities.

We conducted a randomized controlled trial to test the efficacy of a social engagement intervention using videoconferencing for older adults with a range of cognitive abilities. We randomly assigned 99 community-dwelling older adults to either an intervention group, which involved attending 8 weeks of social engagement events on the OneClick videoconference platform, or a waitlist control group. Assessments and semi structured interviews were conducted at Baseline, Week-4, and Week-8 for all participants.

Loneliness decreased, and social activity frequency increased in the intervention group. Additionally, computer proficiency and perceptions about ease of use increased. Qualitative analysis indicated most participants had a positive experience, enjoyed the social interactions, topics, and learning from others.

Our systematic examination of social engagement over videoconferencing showed the value of this type of intervention. Contrary to stereotypes, participants enjoyed engaging in conversations and reminiscing with new people. These findings highlight the benefits of low-cost, user-led, technology-based social interventions with potential to scale broadly and be implemented by community organizations.