Cristina Thompson, Darcy Morris, Amy Montgomery, Elizabeth Halcomb
Background Multiple factors contribute to older people's risk of loneliness and social isolation, including chronic conditions, functional disability, sensory impairments, and diminishing social networks with loss of social capital. Improving social connections and sustaining satisfying interpersonal relationships contribute to improved well-being for lonely and socially isolated older people. Aim This study seeks to investigate the feasibility, acceptability, and impact of a general practice nurse-led social prescribing intervention to improve social connections for community-dwelling older people. Methods This pre-post intervention study was conducted within an Australian primary health network. Nurses from seven general practices assessed older people's social networks and interests, co-produced personalised plans, referred to activities, and provided follow-up. Loneliness and health-related quality of life were measured pre- and 12 weeks post-intervention using validated scales. A consumer experience survey was undertaken at follow-up. Findings There was no statistically significant difference in self-rated health or loneliness among the 37 participants. However, 45.9% (n=17) of completing participants reported improvements in self-rated health, and more than one-quarter reported improvements in the quality-of-life dimension, ‘pain/discomfort' (29.7%, n=11). Participants indicated increased awareness of community activities and improved social interaction post-intervention. Discussion Findings informed the redesign of this intervention and led to improvements in implementation, including additional recruitment strategies, greater understanding of accessibility issues, and a review of the evaluation design. Conclusion The intervention was feasible, acceptable, and provided positive experiences for participants. However, program reach and feasibility were impeded by both natural hazard events and COVID-19, which influenced participant recruitment factors and uptake of recommended activities.