Systematic Reviews of Psychosocial Interventions for Loneliness Among Older Adults in Community and Residential Care Settings: An Umbrella Review.

In 30 seconds

This umbrella review, conducted using Joanna Briggs Institute methodology, examined psychosocial interventions for loneliness among older adults in community and residential care settings. It included 22 systematic reviews and identified seven intervention types. Social facilitation involving synchronised interaction, psychological therapies, health and social care provision, and animal-assisted interventions showed positive effects on loneliness; evidence for leisure and skill-development and befriending interventions was less conclusive and requires greater rigour. Group settings, synchronised interaction and purposeful activities facilitated participation, while technology and safety concerns were barriers.

Key findings

• The umbrella review included 22 reviews and identified seven major types of psychosocial intervention.
• Social facilitation with synchronised interaction, psychological therapies, health and social care provision, and animal-assisted interventions showed positive effects on loneliness.
• Leisure and skill-development and befriending interventions require more rigorous evidence.
• Group settings, synchronised interaction and purposeful activities facilitated participation; technological and safety issues were barriers.

Why it matters

Loneliness interventions vary in approach, and this synthesis distinguishes intervention types with reported positive effects from those for which evidence remains insufficient. It also identifies practical factors that may support or impede participation. These findings can inform consideration of psychosocial options and highlight where stronger evidence and implementation research are needed.

What to keep in mind

The abstract reports that evidence for leisure and skill-development and befriending interventions warrants more rigorous research; it does not provide further limitations.