THE ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN LONELINESS, SOCIAL ISOLATION AND FIVE DOMAINS OF COGNITION
2024
Loneliness, Social Isolation, and Cognitive Function in Older Adults
Sample size: 2884
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Yoon Dokyung, Zelinski Elizabeth, Eich Teal
Primary Institution: University of Southern California, Leonard Davis School of Gerontology
Hypothesis
This study aimed to investigate the associations between loneliness, social isolation, and five cognitive domains.
Conclusion
Lonelier older adults tend to have lower cognitive scores, particularly in memory, executive function, and language.
Supporting Evidence
- The study found significant associations between loneliness and cognitive scores across all five domains.
- Loneliness was linked to lower cognitive scores even after controlling for demographics and depression.
- Social isolation was significantly associated only with processing speed.
Takeaway
If older people feel lonely, they might not think as clearly, especially when it comes to remembering things or solving problems.
Methodology
The study used a comprehensive neuropsychological battery and multiple regression analysis.
Participant Demographics
Older adults with a mean age of 72.8.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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