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Technology-based interventions for social isolation and depression in older adults: Observational and
Barbara Gomez Peña1, José Manuel Alcalde-Llergo2, María Del Mar Uclés-Torrente3
1Inclusion Unit, University of Córdoba, Menéndez Pidal campus residence halls, Córdoba, 14071, Spain; Ophthalmology Unit, León Hospital, Altos de Nava, León, Spain.
Introduction:
The progressive ageing of the population and rising life expectancy have created new public health challenges. These are particularly apparent in the mental and social wellness of older adults. Unwanted loneliness and social isolation are critical mental health determinants in this group, with strong links to depression. Consequently, identifying effective interventions to reduce loneliness and improve psychosocial well-being has become a public health priority.
Aims:
The objectives were to assess loneliness, and depression among adults aged ≥60 years and to evaluate the effectiveness of technology-based interventions.
Methods:
A sequential two-phase study was conducted. The first was an observational phase using validated surveys with a sample of older adults (n = 248). In the second phase, an innovative workshop programme, "Technology and Health," was implemented. The experimental group received an intervention combining Virtual Reality (VR) and structured nursing-led telephone follow-up. Participants in both groups who were identified as being at high risk of depressive symptoms received structured telephone follow-up as a continuity-of-care strategy.
Results:
Female sex, living alone, and increasing age were associated with higher loneliness and depressive symptoms, whereas communication technologies were associated with lower emotional vulnerability (all p < 0.05). Following the intervention, participants showed significant reductions in loneliness and depressive symptoms.
Conclusion:
Technology-based nursing interventions combining VR and structured telephone follow-up may reduce loneliness and depressive symptoms while enhancing social connectedness among older adults. These findings support the integration of technology-assisted interventions into community nursing and healthy ageing programmes to promote psychosocial well-being and digital inclusion.