New Research Highlights Success of EngAGE Community Pilot for Older Adults

Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network (HNECC PHN) has announced the publication of new research. The research details the success of the EngAGE Community Pilot, a program designed to support older adults in maintaining social connections and improving their wellbeing.

The EngAGE Community Pilot is a 15-week telehealth-based initiative. It incorporates group exercise and social engagement activities. Student practitioners, operating under professional supervision, delivered the program.

Among the 73 participants aged 65 and over, those who completed the program demonstrated significant improvements. These improvements were observed in areas such as loneliness, social anxiety, psychological distress, and overall quality of life.

Participants reported high satisfaction levels, citing the program's accessibility, enjoyment, and sustained benefits. The student-led delivery model also provided practical experience for developing health professionals.

The findings indicate that scalable and cost-effective programs, similar to EngAGE Community, may effectively address social isolation and promote healthy aging within communities.