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Chapter 1 Introduction
The Context
Social isolation and loneliness is a global concern even post-
pandemic. EU’s loneliness survey (2023) showed Ireland as Europe’s
loneliest country. Alone’s figures reported a significant percentage
(36%) of older adults newly contacting the organization feel socially
isolated/lonely (Alone, 2023).
Various studies and interventions had been conducted in the
dimensions of physical, mental and social support but sense of
purpose has not yet been explored as a potential aid in alleviating
loneliness/social isolation.
This fact ignited my interest and concern as the post-pandemic era
calls for a re-evaluation of the way we live and the long-standing INTRODUCTION
issue of loneliness amongst older adults deserves a deeper look. It is
also a topic close to heart as my mother had a similar experience
particularly during the period after her retirement.
This research explored ways of engaging older adults in the
community with the hope of alleviating loneliness/social isolation. As
a qualitative researcher, I do hope to shed light on the unmet needs
of older adults and use this opportunity to design for good.
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