Offers to prevent social isolation and loneliness among older people in rural areas

Background Older people living in rural areas are at high risk of social isolation and loneliness, as well as their associated health effects (e.g., increased all-cause mortality, cardiovascular diseases). To address this increasing public health problem, offers to promote and strengthen social contacts and participation are necessary.Objectives Is there a need for preventive offers regarding social isolation or loneliness, and how can this be met?Methods A quantitative, descriptive analysis using a paper-pencil questionnaire was conducted from December 2019 to January 2020 to analyze (1) the presence of social isolation and loneliness, as well as its risk factors, (2) needs and wants, and (3) the assessment of suitability and interest in offerings to prevent social isolation and loneliness among residents <= 65 years in a rural community.Results The response rate was 48.9% out of N = 331. Various risk factors for social isolation and loneliness (e.g., childlessness, restricted mobility) were present in the study population. Furthermore, almost a fifth did not have any personal contact with people from the public sector within the last 14 days. Over a fifth said they felt lonely "sometimes " or "often ". The proposed offerings "worship services, use of church-based measures ", "excursions ", "informational events on various topics ", "joint exercise/sports " and a "support group in which one can offer one's help to other people and/or receive help " were most frequently rated as suitable and interesting.Conclusions The results show high demand, needs, and interest in offers which prevent social isolation and loneliness. Services should consider the specific needs (e.g., affordability) and wants (e.g., community actions) of older people.