Assessing Social Disconnection in Older Adults at Risk for Suicide
Author Information
Author(s): Bower Emily, Loskot Taylor, Van Orden Kimberly
Primary Institution: Pacific University, Hillsboro, Oregon, United States; University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, United States
Hypothesis
Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) is a valid method for assessing social disconnection in older adults at heightened risk for suicide.
Conclusion
Mobile EMA is a promising method for capturing daily changes in social disconnection among older adults at risk for suicide.
Supporting Evidence
- EMA items correlated strongly with INQ scores and depression.
- Participants completed a mean of 37.2 surveys with an average response rate of 67%.
- 63% of participants who reported no perceived burden on the INQ reported daily variability in the EMA burden item.
Takeaway
This study looked at how older adults feel socially disconnected and found that using smartphones to check in on their feelings can help understand their situation better.
Methodology
Participants completed baseline paper-and-pencil measures and daily EMA surveys delivered to their smartphones for 14 days.
Participant Demographics
Mean age 69 years, 81% female.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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