Loneliness and Social Isolation Among Elderly in Jazan During COVID-19
Author Information
Author(s): Muacevic Alexander, Adler John R, Hanan A. Almaimani, Wafaa A. Moafa, Tasneem A. Aqili, Shatha Y. Homadi
Primary Institution: Jazan University
Hypothesis
This study aimed to measure loneliness among the elderly living in the Jazan region, Saudi Arabia, during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Conclusion
The study highlights a high prevalence of social and emotional loneliness among elderly individuals in Jazan, Saudi Arabia, during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Supporting Evidence
- 80% of participants experienced moderate loneliness despite living with family.
- 89% reported social loneliness and 88% reported emotional loneliness.
- Significant associations were found between loneliness and age, housing companion, and communication frequency.
Takeaway
Many older people in Jazan felt lonely during the COVID-19 pandemic, even though most lived with family. They struggled to use technology to stay connected.
Methodology
A cross-sectional study using convenience sampling to recruit 100 elderly participants and collect qualitative survey data through interviews.
Potential Biases
Social desirability bias may have influenced participants' responses during face-to-face interviews.
Limitations
The cross-sectional design limits causal inferences, and the convenience sampling may not represent the broader elderly population.
Participant Demographics
66% female, 55% aged 60-70, 69% married, 87% living with family.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.005
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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