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Disciplines

Nursing

Publication Date

2017

Document Type

Poster

DOI

10.25778/4rr1-qs93

Abstract

Humans are highly social beings which is evidenced by our desire to continually establish social relationships with each other. Healthy social relationships promote engagement in social activities and provide access to social support which greatly benefits overall health outcomes. In our research study, we provide an overview of the impact of social activities on the quality of life among nursing home residents (65+) and evaluate different aspects of social relationships on various health, physiological and psychological functioning. Evidence suggests that a level of social engagement increases life satisfaction and is also associated with a lower risk of physiological dysregulation while low levels of social engagement can negatively impact physiological and psychological functioning (Kelly et al., 2017). We utilize the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) survey to gather data from nursing home residents. The GDS is a tool developed as a self-report instrument utilized to screen for clinical depression among older adults (Mauk, 2018). Data collected from the surveys will be analyzed using t-test data analysis. Independent variables of interest include participation in subjective measures of social activities, social programs, and social support. The primary outcome of interest is to determine the impact of social activities on cognitive functioning, quality of life, and the number of hospitalizations. Creating programs that help older adults engage in activities and boost productivity, such as social activities, group exercise, group volunteering, etc., will contribute to a better life satisfaction and healthier aging.

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