Evaluation of an intervention targeting loneliness and isolation for older people in North Wales

Aims:
Age Cymru Gwynedd and Môn provided a service, Cadwyn Môn, which aimed to reduce loneliness and isolation of older people living on Anglesey, North Wales. It involved working with individuals to identify goals, beginning on a one-to-one basis, with the aim of integrating into a wider social setting. The aim of this study was evaluate the impact of Cadwyn Môn on those who received the service.

Methods:
The evaluation adopted a mixed-methods design. Standardized measures of loneliness, social isolation and well-being were obtained at baseline and follow-up time points, and a qualitative element explored client experiences further.

Results:
Improvements were observed in all standardized measures. Qualitative interviews also revealed important psychological and lifestyle changes.

Conclusions:
Given the anticipated rise in loneliness and social isolation alongside an ageing population, this evaluation contributes to understanding the qualities required for interventions to be effective. The findings provide support for the importance of developing individualized interventions that aim to gradually re-integrate people into their communities.