Evaluating and Implementing The CONNECT Program - a Group-Based Telehealth Intervention to Reduce Social Isolation, Loneliness, and Mental Health Symptoms in Adults Ages 55+, Compared to Routine Community-Based Programming

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF MANITOBA · Aug 3, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a program called The CONNECT Program, which is designed to help adults aged 55 and older who are feeling lonely, isolated, or experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression. The program is delivered in small groups over the phone or online and focuses on improving mental well-being by teaching skills to better handle difficult thoughts and feelings, increase self-kindness, and support healthy aging. The trial will compare this program to regular community activities that people might normally join to see which approach works better for reducing loneliness and improving mental health.

If you are 55 or older, speak and understand English, and have experienced feelings of loneliness, social isolation, or mental health challenges like anxiety or depression, you might be eligible to join. Participants will take part in group sessions by phone or online and share their experiences while learning helpful strategies. This study is important because many older adults don’t access formal mental health care, and programs like this could provide an easier, more accessible way to support mental health and social connection. The results will help shape future programs across Canada and beyond to better support older adults’ mental and emotional well-being.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Adults aged 55 years or older
• • Able to speak, read, and understand English
• • Can manage hearing or vision changes well enough to participate in group conversations
• • Self-reported experiences of loneliness, social isolation, and/or mental health challenges (e.g., anxiety or depressive symptoms)
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Cannot communicate in English (verbal or written)