Sheltering in place tied to loneliness, depression

Older adults experienced greater depression and loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a study by Indiana University researchers, and relationship strength - i.e., perceived closeness to network members - moderated the relationship between loneliness and depression. Although the study reads as though the pandemic is over, that is far from the case right now. Therefore, active-aging organizations can help by ensuring as many social connection opportunities for their constituents as possible, especially through technology. It might help to monitor participation and intervene if a member or resident's social engagement appears to be dropping.