Social Disconnectedness, Loneliness, and Cognitive Functioning in Older Chinese Immigrants
Author Information
Author(s): Tang Fengyan, Jiang Yanping
Primary Institution: University of Pittsburgh, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
Hypothesis
The study aimed to investigate the association of social disconnectedness and loneliness with cognitive functioning and examine the moderation role of neighborhood contexts.
Conclusion
Perceived loneliness is a risk factor for cognitive decline among older Chinese immigrants, especially in neighborhoods with low socioeconomic status and high disorder.
Supporting Evidence
- More loneliness was associated with a higher level of initial cognitive functioning.
- Loneliness was linked to a faster decline rate in cognitive functioning over time.
- High neighborhood socioeconomic status buffered the negative effects of loneliness on cognitive decline.
- High neighborhood disorder amplified the positive relationship between loneliness and initial cognitive functioning.
Takeaway
Feeling lonely can make older people forget things faster, especially if they live in a not-so-nice neighborhood.
Methodology
The study used longitudinal analysis and latent growth curve models to assess cognitive functioning and its relationship with loneliness and neighborhood contexts.
Participant Demographics
Individuals aged 60 years and older, specifically older Chinese immigrants.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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