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Loneliness is a health problem that affects a person’s daily life. Narrowing of the social network is one of the causes of loneliness, a problem for many older adults. It is unknown what is needed to raise awareness about loneliness and to combat loneliness. Together with the citizens, we have searched for methods of citizen science in the municipalities of Nijverdal, Rossum, Albergen and Glanerbrug to reach people suffering from loneliness and combat loneliness.

This research used principles of citizen science. Various studies have been set up and carried out together with citizens, volunteers and other partners, and activities have been organized based on earlier findings. A deductive data analysis was applied to evaluate the themes of loneliness, reaching lonely older adults, motivation to volunteer or participate in citizen science, and the influence of volunteering or citizen science on loneliness.

With various research projects and activities, we have reached 375 people (older adults, volunteers, coordinators) in the four municipalities. The main findings are the need to build a relationship of trust and to find a personal approach.

As a methodology, citizen science can contribute to combating loneliness by reaching and involving people with loneliness.