Social appeal of REACT and Social connectedness (lower order theme)
EVENTS
Social appeal of REACT and social connectedness was commonly reported at both six-and-12-months and was characterized by acknowledgement of the importance of social connectedness to the health and wellbeing of older adults. At 12-months there was a shift from simply acknowledging that social connectedness is important for wellbeing, to reporting that social connectedness amongst REACT group members had increased. Increased social connectedness motivated participants to continue engaging with the REACT programme. While social connectedness was important throughout the programme, ways for enhancing social connectedness varied between REACT groups, (i.e. the presence of an ambassador organising social events for one group, or the creation of a carpool to support attendance at another group). Participants reported that feelings of social connectedness enhanced enjoyment of REACT and motivated continued participation in REACT and daily PA.At 24-months, one year after the completion of the REACT programme, many participants reported enacting independent PA plans. They described having supportive social networks independent of the REACT groups, with their social support needs being met by people independent of REACT. However, after completion of the REACT programme some reported shrinking social connections, highlighting its impact on PA opportunities and physical and mental wellbeing.