Background
Social isolation and loneliness have been associated with a range of physical and psychological health outcomes. Low-income older adults face a greater risk of social isolation due to a lack of resources and opportunities to engage in social activities, putting them at increased risk of adverse situations and conditions, such as experiences of elder abuse and increased risk of heat-related illness.
Project Purpose
The purpose of this project is to evaluate four programs offered by the Oregon Department of Human Services, Aging and People with Disabilities Division (ODHS/APD) to older adults receiving Medicaid services in their homes who are at risk of social isolation. The programs are primarily digital and virtual interventions intended to mitigate social isolation and feelings of loneliness by facilitating various modes of social participation, providing access to programs and services, and offering companionship to improve overall well-being.
The goals of this project are:
- To understand participants' interactions with the GetSetUp, GrandPad, GrandPad with Music, and Robotic Pet programs offered by ODHS/APD, and
- Evaluate the effectiveness of these programs in combating social isolation and feelings of loneliness through quantitative and qualitative research.