Impact of the HELPeN Program on Social Isolation in Community-dwelling Elders (HELPeN)

Launched by MARIA RUZAFA MARTINEZ · Dec 8, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The HELPeN trial is studying how a special telephone support program can help older adults feel less lonely and more connected. This program, called HELPeN (Help eNursing), lasts for 12 months and aims to improve various aspects of life for seniors who are socially isolated. The researchers will look at changes in feelings of loneliness, social connections, mental health, sleep, and overall quality of life. Some participants will receive the HELPeN program, while others will not receive any intervention for comparison.

To take part in this study, individuals must be over 65 years old, live in the community, and score low on a social support scale, indicating they feel isolated. They should also be able to communicate in Spanish and provide consent to join the study. Participants can expect regular phone calls from trained nurses who will offer support and check on their well-being throughout the year. This trial is currently recruiting participants and aims to understand how this type of support can enhance the lives of elderly individuals living alone or with others.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • score \< 32 (Low perceived social support with the DUFSS scale)
• • Residence in the community
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Severe cognitive impairment (8-10 errors on the Pfeiffer test)
• • Non Spanish speakers
• • Failure to consent to the study

Trial Officials