‘Emerging from the shadows’ of social isolation

A new research project is seeking the experiences and views of older Australians, aged 65 years and over, in order to gain in depth knowledge and understanding of experiences in terms of social connections, social support, loneliness and social isolation.

Posted November 5th 2014

by super

<p>A new research project is seeking the experiences of older Australians to gain in depth knowledge and understanding of experiences in terms of social connections.</p> — A new research project is seeking the experiences of older Australians to gain in depth knowledge and understanding of experiences in terms of social connections.

The project, titled Emerging from the Shadows: The Evaluation of Intervention Strategies to Reduce Social Isolation, comes as further research claims older people’s social connections are declining, both in Australia and overseas.

The research project team would like to work with any service providers who might be able to facilitate distributing the survey to interested consumers.

Relationships and connections with other people allow us to share information, to learn, to be of value and to be valued. It is essential to wellbeing. Feelings of loneliness and social isolation can increase as people age and it is important that people who feel lonely or are socially isolated are connected back into the community.

This is a national research project involving a number of universities and a range of partner organisations, including COTA Queensland.

This research project has been approved by a number of Human Research Ethics Committees, including The University of Adelaide and Queensland University of Technology

The survey opens next Wednesday (12 November 2014) and closes on 31 March 2015.

To take part in the study, complete the survey online. Alternatively, a paper copy of the survey can be mailed to you. Call COTA Queensland to request a copy on 1300 738 348.

All people taking part in the survey may enter into a draw to win an iPad or $500 (first prize) or one of 20 prizes of $100 each.

If you have any questions about the study, contact Debbie Faulkner at the University of Adelaide on (08) 8313 3230 or email debbie.faulkner@adelaide.edu.au.