Final report: effective assessment of social isolation

Abstract

The aim of this project is to review the scientific and ‘grey’ literature on instruments used for the effective assessment of social isolation amongst clients and for the outcomes assessment of therapeutic interventions designed to reduce social isolation. From this review the best instruments used to assess social isolation are recommended, including any adaptations that might be required for these instruments (e.g. item modification, field testing, and the development of rating scale and simplified English versions). This report identifies the most promising instruments to use for the assessment and monitoring of social isolation amongst Ageing, Disability and Home Care clients. The recommendations include consideration of the best way to implement assessment and outcome evaluation measures for social isolation in routine practice. The particular target groups for this project are the elderly, young people with disabilities and their carers.