Eligible studies were controlled studies that evaluated an intervention that involved computer or internet use aimed at older adults living in communities or facilities. Outcomes of interest were levels of loneliness and depression. Studies that focused on a specific disease or symptom were excluded.
All the interventions included both computer and internet training. Most studies provided computers during the intervention. Training was provided on a group or individual basis. The duration of interventions ranged from three to 36 months. Where reported, participants were from private residences, community or nursing homes, day-care centres or lived alone at home. The mean age of participants ranged from 66 to 83 years old. Studies were conducted in USA, Israel and the Netherlands.
It was unclear how many reviewers selected studies for inclusion.