Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 5, 2026

Methodology for Establishing a Community-Wide Life Laboratory for Capturing Unobtrusive and Continuous Remote Activity and Health Data
Published on: July 27, 2018
Interpersonal interactions in a community-based activity program targeting loneliness among older adults: An
Anna Axén1, Elin Taube2, Christine Kumlien3
1Department of Health, Blekinge Institute of Technology, Karlskrona, Sweden; Department of Care Science, Faculty of Health and Society, Malmö University, Malmö, Sweden.
Abstract:
Healthy aging implies physical and psychological well-being, maintaining social relationships and engaging in meaningful activities. Thus, socially inclusive initiatives that address loneliness are needed. The aim of this ethnographic study was to describe interpersonal interactions in a community-based activity program targeting loneliness among older adults. Over 10 weeks, 10 participants were observed during interpersonal interactions on 20 occasions, focusing on when, where, and how the interactions occurred. Field and reflective notes were analyzed using an ethnographic approach. The findings show that support was promoted through communication, which created togetherness in the activities by encouraging each other and exchanging knowledge and information. Furthermore, connecting by embracing openness highlighted a willingness and courage to share life experiences and bring memories into conversations. These findings provide valuable insights for designing future activity programs that reduce loneliness and promote social connectedness among older adults.
Related Concept Videos
Community Based Intervention
Foundations of Community Mental Health Programs
Central to the success of community-based interventions is the...
Longitudinal Research
Erikson's Theory on Socioemotional Development during Adulthood
Intimacy Versus Isolation in Early Adulthood
Individuals in early...
Naturalistic Observations
Social Relationships and Well-Being
Relationship Formation

