Document Type

Dissertation

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Major

Nursing

Date of Defense

9-16-2021

Graduate Advisor

Vanessa Loyd

Committee

Laura Kuensting

Deborah Jeffery

Abstract

Problem: Loneliness and social isolation are severe burdens on global public health and can impair overall health outcomes. Unfortunately, both loneliness and social isolation are prevalent in the older adult population. The purpose of this quality improvement project was to evaluate loneliness in older adults enrolled in a weekly socialization program and its impact on loneliness.

Methods: A descriptive cohort design was utilized to analyze surveys completed three months apart. A convenience sample was used with older adults already enrolled in a weekly socialization program. The Iowa Model of Evidence-Based Practice was applied to evaluate and promote quality care in the weekly socialization program.

Results: A difference (t = 2.42, p = .034) in loneliness was observed using the DJGLS between the initial and secondary assessments. There was a change (z = -2, p = .046) in perceived quality of life within three months. There was no difference (z = -1.89, p = .059) in perceived loneliness between the initial and secondary assessments. There was not a difference (t = -0.96, p = .356) in social isolation using the LSNS-6 within three months.

Implications for Practice: Weekly socialization programs can positively impact older adults’ loneliness and perceived quality of life. These programs could be used as a supplement to an older adult’s established community of family and friends.

Keywords: older adults, loneliness, social isolation, socialization programs, quality of life

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