Social connection in long-term care homes

Abstract

Background:

Social connection is a basic human need and is important for quality of life and care for residents in long-term care (LTC) homes. Research has established associations between aspects of social connection (e.g., social engagement, social support and loneliness) and mental health outcomes (e.g., depression). Yet, despite living in a congregate setting, those in LTC homes often experience poor social connection. Social connection has unique considerations for LTC homes, including that most residents are living with cognitive impairment or dementia, which requires a customized measurement approach.

Research Objective:

The social connection in long-term care home residents (SONNET) study aims to improve measurement of social connection in LTC homes by addressing three specific questions: (1) What existing measures assess social connection in LTC homes and what are their psychometric properties? (2) What do residents, families, staff and clinicians consider to be the important elements of social connection in LTC homes? (3) Can a new measure accurately assess social connection in LTC home residents?

Method:

The three study questions will be addressed through: (1) A systematic review of existing measures, where measures will be characterized using content analysis and COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) methods; (2) Qualitative interviews with residents, families, staff and clinicians to understand important aspects of social connection, and, (3) Development and testing of a new measure of social connection in Canada and the UK.

Preliminary results of the ongoing study:

Previous research will be discussed, including a scoping review summarizing research evidence linking social connection to mental health outcomes as well as strategies to build and maintain social connection during the COVID-19 pandemic. The SONNET study update will include preliminary findings from the systematic review and qualitative interviews, as well as development of a conceptual model and key considerations for a new measure.

Conclusion:

Social connection is an important concept in LTC homes. A robust measure of social connection, developed specifically for this setting, will enable researchers and care settings to test the effects of interventions and to report outcomes at the individual-, home- and system-level.