Loneliness in Older People in Rural Spain
Author Information
Author(s): Mafla-España Mayra Alejandra, Corchón Silvia, Jimeno-de Pedro Paula, Ibáñez-del Valle Vanessa, Cauli Omar
Primary Institution: University of Valencia
Hypothesis
The study aims to evaluate loneliness and the psychosocial factors associated with loneliness in rural Spain.
Conclusion
There is a high prevalence of loneliness among older people living in rural areas, which is associated with some social factors.
Supporting Evidence
- 30.6% of participants experienced moderate loneliness.
- 2.8% of participants reported severe loneliness.
- A significant correlation was found between loneliness and age (Rho = 0.28, p = 0.003).
- Men experienced more emotional loneliness than women.
- Significant associations were found between loneliness and having children and caring for a dependent person.
Takeaway
Many older people in rural areas feel lonely, and this loneliness can be linked to their social connections and family relationships.
Methodology
A cross-sectional study was conducted using the de Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale to assess emotional and social loneliness among older residents.
Potential Biases
The sampling method may introduce selection bias.
Limitations
The study used convenience sampling, which may limit the generalizability of the results.
Participant Demographics
Participants were community-dwelling individuals aged 65 years and older, with a majority being women.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.003
Confidence Interval
95% CI 0.06–0.89
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website