Improving social connections for older adults during crises
Increasing Social Connection Through Crisis Caring Contacts: A Pragmatic Trial
This study is looking at how a friendly program called Caring Contacts can help older adults, especially those dealing with health issues, feel less lonely during tough times like the COVID-19 pandemic by keeping them connected and encouraging them to stick with their treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Portland VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10982446 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how to reduce loneliness among older adults, particularly those with medical or psychiatric issues, during times of crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic. The approach involves a program called Caring Contacts, which aims to enhance social engagement and treatment adherence through regular supportive communication. By focusing on older adults who may be isolated and at risk for negative health outcomes, the study seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of this intervention in improving their overall well-being. Participants will receive caring contacts to help foster connections and encourage treatment engagement.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults with medical or psychiatric comorbidities who are experiencing social isolation.
Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing loneliness or do not have any medical or psychiatric comorbidities may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce feelings of loneliness and improve mental health outcomes for older adults during crises.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that interventions aimed at increasing social connections can be effective, particularly in vulnerable populations, suggesting a promising avenue for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Portland, United States
- Portland VA Medical Center — Portland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Teo, Alan — Portland VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Teo, Alan
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.