Social prescribing as a facilitator in healthy ageing
A Costa, V Alarcao, A Virgolino, M Arriaga, J Henriques, P NogueiraAbstract
Background
The landscape of aging and the rise of noncommunicable diseases globally requires health professionals to think how to change the focus from disease treatment to health promotion. Social prescribing (SP) is a non-clinical strategy where community-led group activities improve individuals’ health and well-being through healthcare referral and mediation by a link worker.
Aim
Understanding older adults’ perspective on the potential use and impact of SP programs involving group activities as well as on their intention to participate.
Methods
Using focus-group methodology, 23 participants over 65 years old participated in three face-to-face meetings held in Portugal. Questions were open and semi-open and data from participants perspective was submitted to thematic analysis. None of the participants had previous knowledge about SP.
Results
SP programs were seen as useful and group activities, such as outdoor dynamics, volunteering, travelling and education, were described as facilitators for participants to adhere. Potential benefits on mental health and well-being, reflected in interpersonal relationships, were outlined. Eventual barriers to participation, like mobility problems or personal concerns, reinforced the need for a link worker to guide people on SP programs’ suitability according to their preferences.
Conclusions
Attractivity and acceptability of SP programs in Portugal can be improved through group activities fostering healthy ageing and preventing social isolation and overload. The time to use SP as tool for changing the picture of ageing is now. Training health professionals, promoting community engagement and boosting person-centered and co-developed research on SP is key to ensure long-term good health and well-being.
Key messages
• Social prescribing is a contemporaneous solution to improve well-being and health, particularly in older adults.
• The contribution of group activities, such as volunteering and travelling, to reinforce Social prescribing potential.