Aging Matters

From Dinner Table to Digital Tablet: Technology’s Potential for Reducing Loneliness in Older Adults

Lauren McCausland, BSN, RN; Nancy L. Falk, PhD, RN, MBA

  • Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services
  • May 2012 - Volume 50 · Issue 5: 22-26
  • DOI: 10.3928/02793695-20120410-01
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Abstract

Statistics estimate that close to 35% of our nation’s older individuals experience loneliness. Feelings of loneliness have been associated with physical and psychological illness in several research studies. As technology advances and connectivity through tablet devices becomes increasingly user friendly, the potential for tablets to reduce loneliness among older adults is substantial. This article discusses the issue of loneliness among older adults and suggests tablet technology as a tool to improve connectivity and reduce loneliness in the older adult population. As nurses, we have the opportunity to help enhance the quality of life for our clients. Tablet technology offers a new option that should be fully explored.

AUTHORS

Ms. McCausland is an RN, Dominion Hospital, Falls Church, Virginia; and Dr. Falk is Assistant Professor, George Washington University School of Nursing, Washington, DC.

The authors have disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.

Address correspondence to Nancy L. Falk, PhD, RN, MBA, The George Washington University, School of Nursing, Suite 6167, 900 23rd Street, NW, Washington, DC 20037; e-mail: or nfalk@gwu.edulmccausl@gwmail.gwu.edu.

Posted Online: April 25, 2012

doi: 10.3928/02793695-20120410-01

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