WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOU: A pilot study investigated the effectiveness of virtual compassionate presence (CP) sessions in reducing loneliness and isolation among older adults in AL when facilitated by college students trained in CP. CP involves deep, attentive, and nonjudgmental listening while being fully present. Eighteen older adults participated in CP sessions over 10 weeks and were interviewed 2 months after the last session. Semi-structured interview results revealed a self-reported decrease in participants’ feelings of isolation and loneliness and an increase in overall mood.
Exploring the Effectiveness of Virtual Compassionate Presence Sessions in Reducing Loneliness and Isolation among Assisted-Living Older Adults: A Pilot Study
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOU: A pilot study investigated the effectiveness of virtual compassionate presence (CP) sessions in reducing loneliness and isolation among older adults in AL when facilitated by college students trained in CP. CP involves deep, attentive, and nonjudgmental listening while being fully present. Eighteen older adults participated in CP sessions over 10 weeks and were interviewed 2 months after the last session. Semi-structured interview results revealed a self-reported decrease in participants’ feelings of isolation and loneliness and an increase in overall mood.
