IMPACT OF SUPPORT NETWORKS ON THE INTEGRAL WELL-BEING OF OLDER ADULTS, HOME VISITS PROJECT SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY CENTER; SHUSHUFINDI, FEBRUARY-AUGUST 2025

Abstract

Family, community, and institutional support networks directly influence the overall well-being of older adults, especially in rural areas where service coverage is limited. During old age, the absence of these supports deepens loneliness, isolation, and vulnerability. This study analyzed the impact of these networks on people over 65 who were beneficiaries of the home visit project of the Social Responsibility Center of the Shushufindi canton, Sucumbíos province, between February and August 2025. A mixed approach was adopted, with a non-experimental, descriptive, and correlational cross-sectional design. The sample, selected for convenience, included 40 older adults. Four techniques were applied: semi-structured interviews, an adapted UCLA loneliness scale, participant observation, and focus groups with officials and family members. The results revealed a predominance of moderate to high emotional loneliness, weakened family ties, and low community participation. However, specific expressions of community networks were identified that acted as protective nuclei against emotional deterioration. A notable correlation was established between the active presence of support networks, especially family networks, and higher levels of physical and emotional well-being. Institutional support was considered necessary, although it was perceived as scarce due to its sporadic nature. It was concluded that the effective coordination of support networks is essential to promote dignified, active, and healthy aging, and constitutes a priority for the design of inclusive social policies that respond to the rural realities of Ecuador