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Group-based physical activity as a means to reduce social isolation and loneliness among older adults

Aging Clinical and Experimental Research volume 33, pages 2003–2006 (2021)Cite this article

Abstract

Social isolation and loneliness are critical health epidemics among older adults. The present manuscript aimed to underscore group-based physical activity (GBPA) as an approach to prevent and/or reduce social isolation and loneliness among older adults and, therefore, avoid its negative health consequences. We compiled evidence from the literature to answer the following question: would GBPA be a better approach to prevent/reduce social isolation and loneliness among older adults compared to individual physical activity? There is evidence demonstrating that older adults participating in GBPA not only acquire the well-known physical benefits of physical activity but also experience improvements in social connectedness, due to the fact that individuals exercising with others. To this end, beyond providing physical health benefits, GBPA for older adults may have the potential to help prevent social isolation and loneliness by improving levels of social connectedness in this age group. Further research is much needed, as the literature seems to be scarce. This would help devise tailored exercise programs for those reporting to be isolated or feeling lonely.

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Acknowledgements

The authors thank Drs. Jennifer Jacobs and Peter Chomentowski from the Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education at Northern Illinois University for proofreading the present manuscript.

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This study received no financial support.

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  1. Health and Exercise Research Group, Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, Northern Illinois University, 1425 Lincoln Highway, De Kalb, IL, 60115, USA

    Emerson Sebastião & Daniel Mirda

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  1. Emerson Sebastião
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  2. Daniel Mirda
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Correspondence to Emerson Sebastião.

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Emerson Sebastião declares that he has no conflict of interest. Daniel Mirda declares that he has no conflict of interest.

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Sebastião, E., Mirda, D. Group-based physical activity as a means to reduce social isolation and loneliness among older adults. Aging Clin Exp Res 33, 2003–2006 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40520-020-01722-w

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40520-020-01722-w

Keywords

  • Elderly
  • Loneliness
  • Psychological health
  • Physical health social isolation