The Effectiveness of Interventions for Reducing Loneliness Among Chinese Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

J Gerontol Soc Work. 2024 Apr 10:1-22. doi: 10.1080/01634372.2024.2339976. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

This review assesses interventions to reduce loneliness in Chinese older adults, analyzing 36 studies involving 3965 participants. Focusing on individuals aged 50 and over, the meta-analysis reveals a significant overall effect size (Hedges' g = 0.937, 95% CI [0.71,1.16], p<0.001), highlighting the effectiveness of psychological and mixed-method approaches. Despite promising results, methodological concerns suggest cautious interpretation. Future research should aim to refine intervention quality and examine the impact of technology-supported methods on loneliness.

Keywords: Chinese older adults; Loneliness; meta-analysis; psychological intervention; technology-supported intervention.