EFFECTIVENESS OF FRIENDLY CALLING TO IMPROVE SOCIAL ENGAGEMENT AMONG MEALS ON WHEELS CLIENTS
2024
Effectiveness of Friendly Calling for Meals on Wheels Clients
Sample size: 316
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Smith Matthew, Belazis Laura, Florence L Carter
Primary Institution: Texas A&M University
Hypothesis
Can friendly calling improve social engagement among Meals on Wheels clients?
Conclusion
Friendly calling can significantly reduce social disconnectedness risk among Meals on Wheels clients in just three months.
Supporting Evidence
- A total of 10,400 calls were placed to MOW clients, totaling over 114,300 minutes of talk time.
- 52% of participants reported reduced social disconnectedness risk.
- The study was conducted across seven sites in the country.
Takeaway
Making regular phone calls to older adults can help them feel less lonely and more connected.
Methodology
A pilot study assessing friendly calling effectiveness using the U-SIRS-13 scale over 3 months.
Participant Demographics
Older adults receiving Meals on Wheels services, with 80.4% at risk for social disconnectedness.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.002
Statistical Significance
p=0.002
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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