Effectiveness of home-based interventions in improving loneliness and social connectedness among older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Objectives

To evaluate the effectiveness of home-based interventions in improving loneliness and social connectedness (primary outcomes), and depressive symptoms (secondary outcome) among older adults.

Methods

Eight electronic databases were searched from inception dates to February 2022. Meta-analyses were conducted using a random-effect model. Heterogeneity was assessed using I² statistics and Cochran’s Q chi-squared test. The Cochrane risk of bias tool and the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) was used to appraise the included studies.

Results

Fourteen randomized controlled trials were included. Home-based interventions were found to significantly increase older adults’ social connectedness (social support and social engagement) and reduce their loneliness and depressive symptoms. Subgroup analyses suggested that interventions which lasted more than three months and were delivered using mixed platforms were more favorable. Both professional-led and volunteer-led interventions showed favorable results.

Conclusions

Future studies could be conducted in varied geographical regions and consider carrying out follow-up assessments. Home-based interventions could be improved by being more than months, delivered by mixed personnel, and using mixed platforms. Considering the low-quality rating by the GRADE approach, future research is needed to confirm current findings.

Key points

KEY POINTS

• Older adults can be at higher risk for loneliness and home-based interventions may help to address this issue.

• This review consolidated the available evidence regarding the effectiveness of home-based interventions in improving loneliness, social connectedness, and depressive symptoms among older adults.

• Home-based interventions could significantly increase older adults’ social connectedness (social support and social engagement), and reduce their loneliness and depressive symptoms.

• Future research would be needed to ascertain the sustainability of home-based programs’ effect on older adults.

Keywords:

• Loneliness
• social connectedness
• home-based intervention
• older adult
• systematic review
• meta-analysis

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Data availability statement

The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.

Additional information

Funding

The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.