Exploring Social Connections and Loneliness in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Louis-Charles Willen, Bhowmick Pallabi, Gupta Avinash, Rogers Wendy, Mois George
Primary Institution: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Hypothesis
How do social connectedness, personality, and health relate to loneliness among older adults?
Conclusion
The study found that higher emotional stability is linked to lower perceived loneliness, while better perceived health is associated with stronger social connections.
Supporting Evidence
- One in four older adults in the US are considered socially isolated.
- Emotional stability was negatively correlated with perceived loneliness.
- Perceived health was positively linked to better social connection.
Takeaway
As people get older, feeling lonely can be connected to their personality and health. If older adults feel healthier, they might have more friends.
Methodology
Participants completed personality and social connectedness assessments, and a descriptive analysis was conducted.
Participant Demographics
Older adults aged 61-80, with a mean age of 69.0 years.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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