Priority 2 from the Multiple Conditions in Later Life PSP

UNCERTAINTY: What are the most effective, cost effective and acceptable ways to reduce social isolation in older people with multiple conditions? (JLA PSP Priority 2)
Overall ranking 2
JLA question ID 0064/2
Explanatory note Social isolation was a major concern from all forms respondent. The submissions varied between those that addressed what the impact of social isolation was upon older people and those wishing to address how to most effectively address social isolation. For this reason, there are two different social isolation questions that were included in the Interim Priority Setting exercise. 
Evidence

None identified that applied directly to all conditions in the over 85s

Health Research Classification System category Generic Health Relevance
Extra information provided by this PSP
Original uncertainty examples

'The subject of loneliness has been highlighted in the media, usually among pensioners who have lost their partners. Often people are shown enjoying themselves, mostly women, relatively fit, well dressed and coiffured and less than the age of 80. Loneliness is more prevalent as one gets older, less active , with fewer friends and younger relatives, if any, have their own busy lives to lead. It can also be more common in larger towns where one often doesn't know ones neighbours and each day passes without contact with another human being. Perhaps this is a subjects that might justify more research. Religion plays an important role in the lives of some communities. could research be made into whether or not religion, or religious activity can play a part in the case of the elderly with multiple conditions in much the same way as hospices and the terminally ill?' Older person 

Submitted by All forms of respondents - patients, carers, health and social care professionals
PSP information
PSP unique ID 0064
PSP name Multiple Conditions in Later Life
Total number of uncertainties identified by this PSP. 97  (To see a full list of all uncertainties identified, please see the detailed spreadsheet held on the JLA website)
Date of priority setting workshop 24 April 2018