Tell us what makes it easier or harder for you to stay social and connected with your community as you get older.
The Plug-in is supported by Office for Ageing Well and Wellbeing SA to explore and understand the experiences of older people making social connections and being active in their community.
For some older people, staying connected to their social circle or wider community is a challenge. We want to talk to a wide range of older South Australians to understand how you successfully connect with others in your community and what gets in the way of making social connections — this includes connections for friendship, but also with neighbours and acquaintances in community settings.
Do you have something to say about the challenges or joys of making social connections as you get older?
Are you a part of a group that has helped you to feel connected to your community? Do you feel that there is a lack of age-friendly venues for interacting with others in your area? Are you someone who wants to feel more connected to your community but doesn’t know where to start?
We know people have many different experiences of feeling connected with those around them, and we want to hear about your experience.
Why this project is important
The findings of this study will inform local programs in your area and be shared with decision-makers in state government, local health networks, councils, not-for-profit organisations, and other service providers with the intent of improving everyday life for older South Australians.
Am I eligible?
To be eligible to participate in this project, you must be aged 50 years or over, live in South Australia and be willing to share your experiences.
We will be conducting this project over two stages. The first stage is a survey that you can complete online or on paper. The second stage is a series of workshops and phone interviews around South Australia, including regionally. Further recruitment for Stage 2 will commence in March 2022
Stage 1 — Survey now open
The first stage of this project is a survey which can be completed online by clicking the link below. The survey is open to people aged 50 years and over.
Through this survey we want to get to know a bit more about you and how you successfully make connections with others in your community or what gets in the way of making social connections. We will also ask you about your lifestyle and living arrangements. At the conclusion of the survey, you will have the opportunity to indicate if you wish to be involved in the second stage of this project.
The survey will take less than ten minutes to complete and your responses will remain confidential in accordance with Australian Privacy Principles.
If you are unable to complete the online survey, please contact The Plug-in to obtain a hard copy or to complete the survey over the phone.
Your contribution will make a difference to the lives of older South Australians.
For further information please contact The Plug-in on (08) 8224 5526 or email connect@theplugin.com.au
This project is supported by Office for Ageing Well, SA Health.
