Achieving Well-being in a Super-aging Society Through Interventions for Social Connectedness: Theory, Methods, and Evaluation of Interventions

Abstract

Numerous observational studies have demonstrated the critical role of social connectedness in addressing the challenges of a super-aging society and enhancing individual well-being (WB). However, the extent to which interventions targeting social connectedness within local communities can improve WB among older adults remains unclear. The aim of this study was to conduct a scoping review of intervention studies focused on promoting social connectedness in community settings and enhancing WB. Sixteen studies were identified that quantitatively assessed the effects of interventions. Approximately one-half of these studies reported that the interventions increased social connectedness and improved WB. However, the robustness of these effects could not be firmly established. Research in this area remains in its early stages, with notable gaps in the use of theory-based interventions, and challenges related to sample size, study design, and measurement indicators.