Social Connections

Older people without adequate social connections have an increased risk of poorer mental health and wellbeing which negatively impacts on their physical health and use of health services. In response to these ongoing issues, this project aimed at reducing isolation and loneliness and improving mental health of participants. Our social connections projects were based on a Compassionate Community approach.

Improving Social Connections for Older People

In 2019, the Social Connections of Older People in the Hawkesbury pilot project held three Community Workshops in targeted areas of the region. Over one hundred professionals, volunteers and community members participated. A comprehensive report on the outcomes of the workshops has been produced by Synergia.

The final report, Evaluation of the Improving Social Connections of Older Australians project pilot: Informing future policy considerations by University of Wollongong, is now available.

As a result of the workshop outcomes and committee guidance, three strategies were developed:

• Training of practice nurses in general practice to become Health Connectors
• Establishment and training for Community Connectors and Community Connector Points
• Development and promotion of Website Directory - My Health Connector. 

In 2020 we commenced the Social Connections for Older People initiative in Penrith and Blue Mountains as a part of the Australian Government’s mental health response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This initiative aimed to support older people who may be experiencing social isolation and/or loneliness by promoting connections to services and support to improve their mental health and wellbeing. Similar strategies were implemented for these communities.

In 2023 our work on social connection continues to expand with more Health Connector positions and Community Connector Points being offered.

In 2024 and 2025, the Health Connectors will continue to have conversations with older patients for a variety of reasons and referring them to non clinical services and activities. We will also be working in the Blue Mountains and expanding the Compassionate Communities approach.