Mechanisms through which befriending services may impact the health of older adults: A dyadic qualitative investigation

Hannigan, Caoimhe, Kelly, Michelle E., Holton, Eimile, Lawlor, Brian, Scharf, Thomas, Kee, Frank, Moynihan, Sean, O'Reilly, Aileen and McHugh Power, Joanna E. (2024) Mechanisms through which befriending services may impact the health of older adults: A dyadic qualitative investigation. Journal of Health Psychology. ISSN 1461-7277

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Abstract

Befriending services are often delivered to older adults with a view to improving social connectedness, but they may also lead to improved health. The objective of the current study was to explore potential mechanisms through which befriending services might impact the health of older adults. Data were collected from 13 befriendee-befriender dyads (n = 26), using a constructivist grounded theory and dyadic analytic approach. Potential mechanisms were described, using a realist evaluative framework of mechanistic processes in a complex intervention context. Five mechanisms of action triggered by the intervention were identified: supporting health behaviours; providing emotional support; improving mood; getting cognitive stimulation and novelty; and providing opportunities for socialising. We identified five potential mechanisms through which befriending services might impact health for older people. Our results suggest potential mechanisms through which befriending might positively impact the health of older people, and which should be evaluated empirically in future research.

Item Type:	Article
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > Psychology R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine > RA790 Mental Health B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > Psychology > Psychology, Applied H Social Sciences > HV Social pathology. Social and public welfare > Welfare of older people
Divisions:	School of Business > Staff Research and Publications
Depositing User:	Tamara Malone
Date Deposited:	20 Mar 2024 10:06
Last Modified:	20 Mar 2024 10:06
URI:	https://norma.ncirl.ie/id/eprint/6970

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