Community-Based Group Intervention to Address Social Isolation and Loneliness Among the Elderly in a Rural Community in Tiruvallur District, Tamil Nadu

·     Baseline assessment of social isolation and loneliness among the elderly in the community will be done. Baseline assessment of mental wellbeing using the PHQ9 tool for depression and anxiety will also be used. Implementation of a community based group intervention involving monthly get together in a central location will be organized. Various activities will be conducted to promote physical and mental health healthy food health awareness programs games and cultural activities for a period of 1 year.

The community-based monthly group intervention will consist of:

Social activities and group discussions on various health related topics

Creative arts and recreational activities including music, drawing, dance and drama

Health education and awareness sessions.

Peer support for medical conditions like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, heart disease

Cultural activities and celebrations.

The intervention will be designed to promote social interaction, enhance social skills, foster a sense of belonging, and improve mental well-being.

Endline assessment of social isolation and loneliness among the elderly in the community will be done. Also, mental health and wellbeing assessment will be done. Assessment of implementation outcomes such as reach, utilization, acceptability, and sustainability by conducting qualitative in-depth interviews among participants and local village leaders.