Adapting and Pilot Testing a Loneliness Intervention for Cancer Survivors

Adapting and Pilot Testing a Loneliness Intervention for Cancer Survivors

Loneliness, which is the perceived lack of social support and connection, has increased substantially in the past decade and is adversely affecting the health and wellbeing of cancer survivors. The study seeks to test an intervention that builds on the principles of social prescribing, and targets loneliness to determine if it improves overall wellness and quality of life among cancer survivors.

Our primary study question for our pilot is: "Is it feasible to test a social prescribing intervention adapted to the unique needs of cancer survivors?"

The team will conduct a pilot study that will adapt and test the feasibility of implementing a social prescribing intervention to connect participants with social opportunities and develop supportive social networks.

Specific aims:

1. To adapt a social prescribing loneliness intervention for adult cancer survivors
2. To assess the feasibility of implementing a social prescribing intervention to address loneliness in adult cancer survivors in a 2-arm RCT

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18 years of age or older
• English-speaking
• A score greater or equal to 6 on the UCLA Loneliness 3-item Scale
• Cancer survivor with a cancer diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria:

• Are on palliative care or live in a controlled setting (i.e., assisted living, nursing home or inpatient treatment facility)
• Have an upcoming scheduled surgery
• Severe cognitive impairment or active psychosis