Authors David K. Conn Baycrest Health Sciences; University of Toronto Tanya Billard Office of the Seniors’ Advocate Suzanne Dupuis-Blanchard Université de Moncton Amy K. Freedman Baycrest Health Sciences; University of Toronto; St. Michael’s Hospital Peter M. Hoang University of Toronto Mélanie Levasseur Université de Sherbrooke; CIUSSS de l’Estrie-CHUS Nancy E. Newall Brandon University Mary Pat Sullivan Nipissing University Andrew V. Wister Simon Fraser University DOI: https://doi.org/10.5770/cgj.27.772 Keywords: mental health, depression, social prescribing, social connection, social determinants of health Abstract

Background

Preventing and addressing social isolation and loneliness among older adults is important because of the known associations with negative health outcomes. The Canadian Coalition for Seniors’ Mental Health (CCSMH) took on the task of creating clinical guidelines.

Method

A multidisciplinary working group was established. The process was guided by an initial rapid scoping review of the literature focused on older adults. An adapted GRADE approach was utilized.

Results

CCSMH has produced first-ever clinical guidelines on social isolation and loneliness in older adults. Prevention, including recognition of risk factors and educational approaches focused on clinicians and students, is recommended. Targeted screening with validated tools is recommended. A comprehensive assessment is optimal to treat any underlying conditions and to identify contributing factors that may be responsive to psychosocial interventions. An individualized approach to interventions with shared decision-making is recommended. A variety of possible interventions include social prescribing, social activity, physical activity, psychological therapies, animal-assisted therapies and ownership, leisure skill development and activities, and the use of technology.

Conclusion

The problem of social isolation and loneliness is a “geriatric” giant that needs to be recognized and addressed. Because of its complexity, it will require the collective attention of many individuals and organizations working together at multiple levels of society, to raise awareness and find solutions. We recommend that healthcare and social service providers use these guidelines as a comprehensive tool to identify, assess, and implement strategies to reduce the negative impact of social isolation and loneliness.

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How to Cite

1.

Conn DK, Billard T, Dupuis-Blanchard S, Freedman AK, Hoang PM, Levasseur M, Newall NE, Sullivan MP, Wister AV. Canadian Clinical Guidelines on Social Isolation and Loneliness in Older Adults. Can Geriatr J [Internet]. 2024 Dec. 2 [cited 2024 Dec. 3];27(4):531-8. Available from: https://cgjonline.ca/index.php/cgj/article/view/772