Understanding loneliness and social connections in nursing home residents
Social Connectedness and Social Isolation in Nursing Home Residents
This study looks at how being connected with others can improve the happiness and health of nursing home residents, especially those with Alzheimer's and similar conditions, by understanding how loneliness affects them and finding ways to help them feel less isolated.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10812501 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how social connectedness affects the well-being of nursing home residents, particularly those with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. It examines the spread of loneliness in these environments and identifies factors that contribute to or alleviate social isolation. By studying the relationships among residents over time, the research aims to uncover the health consequences of feeling alone in a crowded setting. The findings will help develop interventions to improve social connections and overall health for nursing home residents.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are nursing home residents, especially those aged 21 and older, who may experience loneliness or social isolation.
Not a fit: Patients who are not residing in nursing homes or those who do not experience social isolation may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental health and quality of life for nursing home residents by enhancing their social connections.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that enhancing social connections can significantly improve the well-being of older adults, suggesting that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, United States
- Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lapane, Kate L — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Lapane, Kate L
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.