Fredericton researcher launches phone program to address seniors' loneliness.

A Fredericton researcher has launched a six-week, phone-based pilot called Connections to reduce loneliness among seniors; Statistics Canada reports mood disorders among people 65 and older rose about 40% between 2015 and 2023.

Lyne Ouellet of St. Thomas University has launched a pilot program called Connections that aims to reduce loneliness among seniors through regular phone calls. The program runs for six weeks and involves small groups working through topics such as mindfulness and emotional management. The phone-based format is intended to make the program accessible to people who may have trouble attending in person. The topic has gained attention after Statistics Canada reported a notable rise in mood disorders among older adults. Key details: - The Connections pilot was launched by Lyne Ouellet and uses a phone-based format with two groups of 10 participants over six weeks, covering topics like mindfulness and emotional management. - Statistics Canada reported that mood disorders among people aged 65 and older increased by almost 40 per cent between 2015 and 2023. - David Conn, co-chair of the Canadian Coalition for Seniors' Mental Health, said the COVID-19 pandemic likely played a role and noted the coalition has developed guidelines to help caregivers support social connections. Summary: The pilot builds on a version previously run in Winnipeg where participants reported improvements and responds to concerns that loneliness can affect mental and physical health. Undetermined at this time.