Intermediates' satisfaction with a loneliness intervention program aimed at older adults: linkage of program plans and users' needs.

Abstract

Intermediates' satisfaction with linkage of program plans and users' needs in the Dutch loneliness intervention program in good company (IGC) was studied. IGC was aimed at prevention and diminishment of loneliness in older adults, aged 55 years and above. Moreover, the objective was to improve helping and cooperation skills of intermediates, i.e. professional workers and volunteers. Different linkage approaches were used successively in three neighbourhoods, varying from top down instrumental to bottom up democratic linkage strategies. The intermediates' satisfaction with these strategies was measured using postal questionnaires, sent about 20 months after the introduction of the program to the three neighbourhoods. Satisfaction was significantly related to the intermediates' subjective evaluation of the linkage approach. Satisfaction was highest in the neighbourhood where the intermediates were consulted most explicitly and where they had a clear voice in the design and organisation of the intervention, using democratic linkage strategies. Satisfaction was clearly associated with the program's success in meeting targets aimed at intermediates. A relationship with effective prevention of loneliness in older adults was not found. It is concluded that the use of democratic linkage strategies, like needs assessments, local action plans and two-way communication between program designers and users, is essential for successful dissemination of health promotion activities.