As Singapore’s population ages, promoting health and well-being among older adults has become a pressing concern for families, healthcare providers, and society at large. Social participation is central to maintaining quality of life in later years, and recent research offers compelling evidence on how social online meetings can be a transformative tool for older adults – insights that resonate deeply with the aspirations for meaningful, connected lives.
Key Findings: Social Online Meetings Enhance Well-Being
A recent study explored the experiences of older adults (aged 66–87) who participated in an eight-week series of structured online group meetings. Most participants lived alone, reflecting a demographic that is especially vulnerable to social isolation – a challenge familiar to many in Singapore’s urban landscape.
The meetings covered a wide range of topics, from digital literacy and physical activity to nutrition and community services, led by professionals such as occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and nurses. This multidisciplinary approach addresses the whole person and supports holistic well-being.
Benefits Identified by Participants:
Enhanced Social Participation: Participants described the meetings as “invigorating,” helping to alleviate loneliness and foster a sense of belonging. As one participant shared, “It has been pretty depressing for me for some time. However, meeting and talking to other people has been invigorating. I usually feel quite lonely.”
New Perspectives and Personal Growth: The group setting allowed individuals to learn from each other, gain new insights into daily challenges, and recognise their own capabilities. “Hearing others, you learn new things, and you’ll have something to compare to. You get a reminder that life isn’t that easy for any of us at times… And actually, I can do plenty,” reflected another participant.
Encouragement for Change: The meetings inspired participants to consider new activities and approaches in their daily routines. However, the need for ongoing support was clear—once the meetings ended, some felt a loss of direction, highlighting the importance of continuity in such interventions.
Challenges and Considerations:
Digital Barriers: Not all participants found online interactions easy. Some struggled with technology or felt that online meetings lacked the intimacy of face-to-face encounters. This underscores the need for accessible technical support and thoughtful design in digital health initiatives – a lesson highly relevant when supporting clients in adopting new tools.
Sustained Engagement: The desire for ongoing opportunities was strong. As one participant noted, “I thought this group was a good idea, but it would have been great to go on. It was a convenient way to make contacts and friends online.” This insight points to the value of continuous, evolving programmes rather than one-off interventions.
The Role of Occupational Therapists in Social Prescription and Digital Health
Occupational therapists are increasingly recognised as experts in social prescription – a rising trend in healthcare that involves connecting individuals with community-based activities and resources to address non-medical factors affecting health. Social prescription moves beyond medication and traditional treatments, focusing on holistic well-being by encouraging engagement in meaningful activities, fostering social connections, and supporting mental health.
With the growing adoption of digital technology, occupational therapists are at the forefront of integrating digital aids as therapy tools. They assess clients’ needs, recommend suitable online platforms or digital interventions, and provide guidance on using these tools effectively to enhance participation and independence. This expertise is particularly valuable for older adults, who may face barriers to digital inclusion but stand to benefit greatly from structured, supportive online engagement.
The benefits of social prescription are well-documented: improved mental health, reduced loneliness, greater sense of purpose, and enhanced quality of life. Occupational therapists play a pivotal role in tailoring these interventions, ensuring they are accessible, meaningful, and aligned with each individual’s goals and abilities. For those seeking to improve their quality of life, working with an occupational therapist offers a personalised, evidence-based approach to building social connections and embracing lifelong learning—both online and offline.
Conclusion: Towards a More Connected Future
As Singapore continues to innovate in eldercare, the lessons from this study are clear: social online meetings are more than a stopgap – they are a vital avenue for promoting health, independence, and joy in later life. By listening to older adults’ experiences and needs, and by fostering ongoing, multidisciplinary support, it is possible to help clients and their families build richer, more connected lives – today and in the years to come.
