Allies in Health

COVID-19 Research Area(s): Culture, Food & Nutrition, Mental Health & Wellbeing, Social Impacts

We are inviting individuals aged 65 years and above together with a close other (e.g. a spouse, friend, neighbor) to participate in the Allies in Health Study. The primary purpose of this study is to understand how close others shape each other’s health behaviours, social interactions, and experiences in the current pandemic. The results of the study can provide insight into what older adults can do to maintain their well-being given the current circumstances. Please note, that this study includes COVID-related questions. Answers to these questions will help us understand the context of your other answers, but you can skip any questions you do not feel comfortable answering.

If you agree to participate, you and your partner will be invited to an online video conference call over Zoom. We will assist you in setting this up. You will be asked to complete a 90 to 120 minute online questionnaire (it is self-paced) asking questions about your background, social relationships, personality, attitudes, health behaviours, and wellbeing. We will also ask COVID-related questions. You can skip any questions you do not feel comfortable answering. Then, for ten days, we will ask you to complete two 5 to 10 minute online surveys per day: one in the morning and one in the evening. These brief surveys will ask you questions about your current context, your thoughts and how you are feeling, your everyday health behaviours and social interactions. You will receive reminders to complete these questionnaires via email. All components of the study are entirely optional and you can discontinue the study at any time. Our team will always be available via Zoom, email, or phone to assist you with any questions you might have. For more information email allies@psych.ubc.ca, phone 604-822-3549, or visit https://blogs.ubc.ca/alliesinhealthstudy