The Role of Social Isolation in Falls and Cognitive Function in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Jung Wonkyung, Taylor Janiece
Primary Institution: Boston College, Johns Hopkins University
Hypothesis
Does social isolation mediate the relationship between falls and cognitive function among older adults in the U.S.?
Conclusion
Social isolation did not mediate the relationship between falls and cognitive function, but socially isolated older adults were more likely to experience cognitive impairments.
Supporting Evidence
- Social isolation did not mediate the relationship between falls and cognitive function.
- Socially isolated older adults were more likely to experience cognitive impairments.
Takeaway
This study looked at how being alone affects older people's ability to think and if it relates to falling down. It found that being alone can make it harder to think clearly.
Methodology
Linear regression models using Hayes’s PROCESS macro with 5,000 bootstrapped mediation analyses in SPSS.
Limitations
The study did not find significant associations between falls and social isolation or cognitive function.
Participant Demographics
60.8% were younger than 75 years, 38.6% were women, and 77.1% were White.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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