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An Innovative App-based Intervention to Promote Social Connectedness and Well-being in Older Adults
Sponsor: University of Padova
Summary
This study evaluates the impact of a group-based intervention designed to promote social connectedness and enhance psychological well-being among older adults. The intervention lasts four months and is supported by a dedicated mobile application that helps participants discover local social activities, connect with peers who share similar interests, and stay informed about community events, with the aim of supporting (not replacing) in-person interactions. This randomized controlled trial assigns participants either to a treatment group, which receives digital literacy training, access to the app, and structured support from the research team to facilitate social engagement within their local community, or to a waitlist control group, which receives access to the app only after the study period. Assessments are conducted at baseline, post-intervention (4 months), and at a 2-month follow-up. The study evaluates changes in social connectedness, loneliness, psychological well-being, and technology use, using a mixed-methods approach combining self-report questionnaires, app-usage data, and qualitative feedback.
Official title: Virtual, Inclusive, Together, Active (VITA): An Innovative App-based Intervention to Promote Social Connectedness and Well-being in Older Adults
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
65 Years - Any
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
100
Start Date
2025-11-22
Completion Date
2026-07-30
Last Updated
2026-03-19
Healthy Volunteers
Yes
Interventions
Blended VITA intervention (hybrid app-based and in-person social engagement program)
Participants in this arm receive a 4-month blended intervention combining structured in-person sessions with guided use of the VITA mobile application. In-person sessions provide digital literacy training to support app navigation, safe interaction, and identification of relevant community opportunities. Through the app, participants can discover local social events, group activities, and community resources, as well as create and share social initiatives with other treatment group members. The research team provides ongoing in-person and remote support, facilitating connections among nearby participants with shared interests. The program promotes digital competence, community participation, peer networking, and social inclusion. Engagement (e.g., app use and activity participation) is monitored, and outcomes related to social connectedness, well-being, and community engagement are assessed at baseline, post-intervention (4 months), and 2-month follow-up.
Locations (1)
Università degli Studi di Padova
Padova, PD, Italy