Prescriptions for Connection: Supporting Social Wellbeing in Northern Adelaide

Social isolation and loneliness are increasingly recognised as serious public health issues, particularly among older adults. These experiences are associated with a range of adverse health outcomes, including depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. Although one in five older adults seek support from their GP for their social needs, our health system is ill-equipped to address these challenges. 

To help bridge this gap, ‘Prescriptions for Connection’ is currently being piloted across Northern Adelaide. This innovative social prescribing program is the result of a cross-sector collaboration between the Northern Adelaide councils of Port Adelaide Enfield, Prospect, and Walkerville, local GP practices, the Integrating Care for Healthy Ageing Research Team from Flinders University, and Adelaide PHN. Funded by The Hospital Research Foundation and the Northern Community Health and Research Foundation.

Prescriptions for Connection implements a co-designed social prescribing model, developed with input from GPs, health professionals and older adult consumers. The program enables older adults to be referred to local, community-based social activities that promote connection, wellbeing, and a sense of belonging.  

Importantly, older adults can also self-refer without consulting a GP. This ensures the program is accessible to as many older people as possible across Northern Adelaide. The pilot will continue accepting referrals until the end of September 2025. 

Professor Stacey George leads the research team evaluating this service, supported by Dr Heather Block and Shenelle Fernando, with all three researchers jointly appointed between Flinders University and Adelaide PHN. This evaluation will explore the outcomes for participants, as well as perspectives of primary care providers, council staff, and volunteers. The evaluation will also consider the long-term sustainability of the service. 

For more information or to get involved, please contact Dr Heather Block (Research Fellow) - heather.block@flinders.edu.au