Project Title: Loneliness in older adults in residential aged care and community settings: Prevalence and predictors
Chief Investigator: Associate Professor Sunil Bhar; Co-investigators: Dr Michelle Lim, Mr Simon Curran, Ms Kristie Hunter, Mr Aaron Willison; Student Investigators: Mr Jim Creaner, Ms Jennifer Stargatt
What is the study about? / Why is the study important?
This study will consider loneliness and wellbeing among older adults from an Australian context. It aims to examine the prevalence of, and factors contributing to loneliness and wellbeing in both residential aged care and community settings.
The factors that contribute to loneliness and wellbeing are poorly understood. Loneliness in older adults has been linked to depression, suicide, and many other health issues including high blood pressure, heart disease and other vascular irregularities. Increased understanding of these factors may lead to the development of interventions that better address loneliness in Australia’s older adults.
What does the study involve? / What is the time commitment?
Participation in the study involves responding to an anonymous survey which includes measures of demographic questions (e.g. age, gender, marital status), and questions about your relationships and how you feel about your current circumstances.
The questionnaire should take 30 minutes to complete.
Will all data provided be confidential?
You will not be identified from the information that you provide. Data will be analysed and reported on an aggregate (group-level) basis only. Individual responses will not be analysed or reported, therefore individuals will not be identifiable. All information will be entered into a secure database and will be stored until securely destroyed.
How will the data be used?
Findings from this project may be published in academic theses (e.g. Honours, PhD) and in journal articles. The results will also be used by Relationships Australia Victoria (RAV) to inform and improve relevant services and programs. If the results are published, or used internally at RAV, there will be no information that will identify you in any way. Information collected in this study may be used in future research projects. Only the chief and co- investigators will have access to your data.
How do I take part in the study?
You must be at least 65 years old to participate in this survey.
Please note that participation in this project is voluntary. Your decision to participate, or to not participate, will not affect your relationship with Swinburne University or with Relationships Australia Victoria.
To participate in this study, click the ‘Next’ button below.
By submitting this survey online, you are letting us know that you have agreed to participate in this study.
