Social Connections and Falls Among Older Women with and without HIV
Author Information
Author(s): Quach Lien, Lloyd Patricia, Erlandson Kristine M, Wilson Tracey, Rubtsova Anna, Sharma Anjali, Burr Jeffrey, Siedner Mark
Primary Institution: University of Massachusetts Boston
Hypothesis
Women with HIV may be more vulnerable to falls due to lower social support and higher loneliness.
Conclusion
Loneliness and lack of social connections are significant contributors to falls in older women in the US.
Supporting Evidence
- Falls were reported by 31.5% of participants.
- Loneliness was associated with a higher likelihood of falls.
- Having someone to share worries with was linked to a lower odd of falls.
- Assistance with medical appointments was also associated with a lower odd of falls.
Takeaway
Older women, especially those with HIV, can fall more often if they feel lonely or lack friends to help them.
Methodology
Data from the 2017 Women’s Interagency HIV Study was analyzed using logistic regression models.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from self-reported data on falls and social connections.
Limitations
The study may not account for all potential confounding factors related to falls.
Participant Demographics
Women aged 50 and older, including those with and without HIV.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95%CI 0.79,1.49; 95%CI 1.04,1.82; 95%CI 0.81,0.996; 95%CI 0.80,0.989
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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