Session: Collaborative Community-Based Research to Improve the Wellbeing of Older Adults (Society for Social Work and Research 29th Annual Conference)

Background and Purpose: Since the COVIC-19 pandemic more attention is being given to social isolation and loneliness among older adults. Health services research reports that one-third of adults aged 45 and older feel lonely, and nearly a quarter of adults aged 65 and older being socially isolated. Because older adults tend to experience high rates of loss among their social network, live alone, have mobility challenges and late life onset of chronic illness, they are at increased risk of exacerbated loneliness and isolation. Research has found that social isolation and loneliness adversely affect physical and mental health of older adults, including weakening immune system, high blood pressure, heart disease, depression, and more. Some reports suggest lived experiences and acculturation may influence social isolation and loneliness. In this symposium, three studies use community-based approaches and team science to better understand mental wellbeing of older adults. Study 1 gathered data from older adults in low-income housing communities to explore the association between patient-reported incidences of social isolation and metabolic syndrome among older adults in senior housing communities. In Study 2, a social worker-led team explored a mental health intervention to facilitate access to and utilization of care by older adults using a cultural competency framework and measurable outcome. Study 3 explored the extent to which service providers of older adults were knowledgeable about helping older adults with gambling problems.

Methods: All three studies used convenience sampling and focused on a particular community of older adults. These studies had community partners and gathered their primary data. Study1 collected chronic illness indicators data (e.g., blood pressure, A1C) from older adults in northeast. Then, a survey was conducted to collect their demographic characteristics and social isolation. In study 2, the social worker lead team collected data from older adults living with mental health disorders to understand the role of cultural competency in increasing their use of mental health support services. Study 3 used cross-sectional mixed method data from older adults in the northwest region of the U.S. to explore their service needs related to gambling activities.

Results: Findings highlight these studies' collective contribution to strengthening older adults' mental wellbeing through culturally tailored interventions and services. Study 1 found that the level of social isolation was low among Black or Hispanic older adults, even when their risk of chronic illness was high. In study 2, the older adults living with mental health disorders preferred culturally competent providers. Study 3 noted that many service providers reported being insufficiently trained to support their older adult clients with gambling problems.

Conclusions and Implications: There is a need to strengthen social impact through collaborative research. These three important studies use community partnerships and interprofessional teams to explore gaps in research and service for older adults. The findings shed light on ways to support older adults and address mental health problems through community-based social work interventions and implementation science.