Addressing loneliness in a retirement village community: A pilot test of a print-delivered intervention

Abstract

Aim: To explore perceptions of a self-help print-delivered intervention aimed at encouraging social well-being and addressing loneliness in a retirement village community.

Method: A total of 58 residents of an Australian retirement village received a series of five factsheets addressing various dimensions of loneliness.

Results: The factsheets raised awareness of the importance of social well-being and loneliness. However, the approach was considered difficult to update and was not appropriate for those from a non-English speaking background or with vision impairments. The non-face-to-face approach also was unable to address issues of loneliness associated with bereavement.

Conclusion: This form of intervention offers a cost-effective way to raise awareness of loneliness and social well-being in a retirement village community when issues of updating and presentation of information are taken into consideration.