[Factors associated with the perception of loneliness among older people living in the community]

Rev Med Chil. 2023 Aug;151(8):1028-1037. doi: 10.4067/s0034-98872023000801028.
[Article in Spanish]

Abstract

Background: Chilean community-dwelling older people are a vulnerable population with a high risk of being self-perceived as lonely.

Aim: To examine the factors associated with the self-perception of loneliness in a group of Chilean community-dwelling older people.

Material and methods: Cross-sectional study design with 540 participants aged 65 years and above (72.20 ± 6.22). Measures for sociodemographic, health status, and integral geriatric assessment were assessed. Correlations and multiple linear regression models were conducted.

Results: Factors such as low perception of social support in everyday situations or cases of emergency, experiencing high depressive symptoms, and perceiving a poor quality of life were significantly associated with a higher self-perception of loneliness.

Discussion: Preventive strategies and age-appropriate psychosocial interventions to mitigate or reverse the impact of these factors may be essential to reduce the self-perception of loneliness and consequently improve older people's well-being.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Chile
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Depression / psychology
  • Female
  • Geriatric Assessment
  • Humans
  • Independent Living* / psychology
  • Loneliness* / psychology
  • Male
  • Quality of Life* / psychology
  • Risk Factors
  • Self Concept*
  • Social Support*
  • Sociodemographic Factors
  • Socioeconomic Factors*