Assessing Change in Social Connection: Design Considerations for Clinical Trials with Older Adults
2024
Assessing Change in Social Connection in Older Adults
Sample size: 5
publication
Author Information
Author(s): Van Orden Kimberly
Primary Institution: University of Rochester Medical Center
Hypothesis
Promoting social connection may prevent suicide in older adults.
Conclusion
The study aims to test if increasing social connection can reduce suicide risk among older adults experiencing loneliness and suicidal thoughts.
Supporting Evidence
- Social disconnection is linked to high rates of suicide in older adults.
- The study uses innovative smartphone technology to assess social connection.
- Baseline assessments have been completed by 5 participants.
Takeaway
The study is trying to see if making friends can help older people feel less sad and stop thinking about hurting themselves.
Methodology
The study uses smartphone assessments to measure social connection and suicide ideation in older adults.
Limitations
Only a small number of participants have completed the study so far.
Participant Demographics
Participants are older adults with an average age of 88, including 2 males and 3 females.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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