FRIEND is an ERASMUS+ project to foster the social inclusion of older adults and combat loneliness. The aim is to develop a blended learning programme that enhances the social skills and coping strategies of older adults, helping to prevent and reduce the risk of social isolation and loneliness. It derives from Nan Stevens’ Friendship Enhancement Programme (FEP) originally created in the 90s, for older widows to empower them regarding friendships (Stevens, 2001). FRIEND programme was cocreated by 30 professionals and 30 older adults, who participated in iterative focus group (FG) sessions across 5 countries: from the original FEP, the authors upgraded the materials with constructive feedback from these FGs. The piloting stage of 7 meetings was organised in two rounds across countries, with quasi-experimental design using pre-post-test measures: i) the Lubben Social Network Scale (LSNS-6); and ii) an individual interview with some participants. A first round of 72 older adults have engaged in testing. While no significant changes were observed in LSNS scores, qualitative findings indicate that the course was highly valued by participants. Many reported increased awareness of their social needs, a shift in attitudes toward their social lives, and greater motivation to engage in meaningful relationships. These findings suggest that the blended friendship course is a promising and well-received intervention, with potential to foster subjective social well-being among older adults.

Authors:
Joana Portugal, Aproximar, Cooperativa de Solidariedade Social, Portugal
Liesbeth Gaasbeek, Gouden Dagen, Netherlands
Kamila Witerska, Akademia Humanistyczno-Ekonomiczna w Łodzi, Poland
Laura Mazzoli, Anziani e Non Solo, Italy
Marie-Louise Kok, Leyden Academy for Vitaliy and Ageing, Netherlands
Silvia Bossio, Fundación Harena, Spain

About the Presenter(s)
Joana Portugal is Head of Unit for Active Ageing and Dependent Care at Aproximar, Portugal. Current interests evolve around intergenerational practice, social connections and work conditions in long-term care.

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