Virtual Community Intervention for Social Connectedness
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a virtual program designed to help adults in the U.S. feel more connected and engaged with their communities while boosting physical and mental wellness. Participants will either join structured online sessions with a digital community platform (the Virtual Community Intervention) or attend self-led group sessions without the platform. It suits adults who have internet access and are comfortable using Zoom in a private space. As an unphased trial, it offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance community engagement and wellness.
Do I need to stop taking my current medications to join the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that this virtual program is safe for participants?
Research has shown that digital programs, such as the Virtual Community Intervention, are generally safe for people. Studies indicate these programs can help older adults feel more connected and less lonely, with no major safety issues reported.
For example, a review found that using video chats and technology to connect people is well-received and can strengthen social bonds. Another study found that virtual reality, a type of digital program, reduced loneliness without significant side effects.
These findings suggest that the Virtual Community Intervention is likely safe. Participants in similar programs have not reported serious negative effects, which is encouraging for anyone considering joining this trial.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Virtual Community Intervention for social connectedness because it offers a new way to enhance interactions and support using digital technology. Unlike traditional self-help or therapy sessions, this intervention utilizes structured virtual sessions on Zoom, combined with engagement on the GROV platform, creating an ongoing digital community space for participants. This approach not only fosters continuous interaction and discussion but also leverages technology to break geographical barriers, potentially making support more accessible and flexible than ever before.
What evidence suggests that this virtual community intervention is effective for boosting social connectedness?
Studies have shown that digital programs can help reduce loneliness and improve social connections. A review of these programs found they often lead to better mental and emotional health. Research indicates that technology, such as online community activities, can enhance social bonds, especially for older adults. This trial will compare two approaches: one group will participate in structured Virtual Community Intervention sessions with engagement on the GROV platform, while another group will attend self-help sessions without GROV engagement. Although not all studies focus on the exact program in this trial, the overall success of digital platforms in building connections is well-documented. These findings suggest that joining organized online sessions and participating in digital communities could positively affect social life and mental health.23467
Who Is on the Research Team?
Dolores Albarracin, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Pennsylvania
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for U.S. adults aged 18 or older who have reliable internet, a webcam, and can use Zoom in their private space. Participants must be able to read and speak English as all materials and sessions are in this language.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Intervention Sessions
Participants attend three highly structured virtual intervention sessions hosted on Zoom, facilitated by trained research team members.
Self-help Sessions
Participants attend loosely structured, self-run, virtual group self-help sessions.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in civic participation, physical and mental wellbeing, and social connection.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Virtual Community Intervention
Trial Overview
The study is testing a virtual community program aimed at improving physical and mental health, increasing civic engagement, and enhancing social connections among participants.
How Is the Trial Designed?
2
Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Active Control
Participants in the experimental group will attend three highly structured Virtual intervention sessions, hosted on Zoom and facilitated by trained research team members. They will also be encouraged to sign up for GROV after completing the baseline and are expected to engage with the GROV platform throughout the study period. The GROV platform will serve as a digital community space for ongoing interaction and discussion.
Participants will attend loosely structured, self-run, virtual group self-help sessions at the same time and duration as intervention sessions. No discussion on the GROV platform for the control group.
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Pennsylvania
Lead Sponsor
Citations
Virtual reality interventions to reduce social isolation in ...
Addresses a timely evidence gap on the effectiveness of virtual reality interventions for social isolation and loneliness in a rapidly ageing ...
Digital bridges to social connection: A systematic review ...
This systematic review and meta-analysis assess the impact of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on digital interventions to reduce loneliness and social ...
Evaluating and Implementing The CONNECT Program
The primary outcome is psychological flexibility; secondary outcomes include loneliness, social isolation, anxiety, depression, emotional support, mental health ...
Effectiveness of Technology Interventions in ... - JMIR Aging
Technology interventions can improve social connectedness in older adults. The specific effectiveness rates favor ICT and videoconferencing, but with limited ...
Promising Approaches to Promote Social Connection
Learn what you can do to promote social connections and reduce loneliness in your community.
Digital interventions to reduce social isolation and ...
To map available evidence on the effects of digital interventions to mitigate social isolation and/or loneliness in older adults in all settings except ...
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behavioralhealthnews.org
behavioralhealthnews.org/using-virtual-reality-to-address-loneliness-and-increase-social-connectedness-in-a-personalized-recovery-oriented-services-pros-program-for-older-adults/Using Virtual Reality to Address Loneliness and Increase ...
A study shows virtual reality reduces loneliness and boosts social connectedness among older adults, offering a promising tool for mental ...
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