What intervention can a nurse use to assist an older adult who may be feeling lonely?

Identifying the nearest senior centre is a valuable intervention for assisting an older adult who may be feeling lonely. Senior centres often provide a range of social and recreational activities that can help foster connections with peers, reduce feelings of isolation, and promote a sense of community. By connecting older adults with these resources, nurses can facilitate opportunities for social interaction and support that may not be easily available at home.

While suggesting visiting family members, encouraging the pursuit of hobbies, or recommending regular phone calls with friends can also be beneficial strategies, they might not address the broader social interaction opportunities that a senior centre offers. These options can be seen as individual solutions, whereas engaging with a senior centre can offer a structured environment where older adults can meet multiple people and participate in group activities, ultimately helping to alleviate loneliness more effectively.