scholarly journals Internet use, social isolation and loneliness in older adults

2020 ◽  
pp. 1-24
Author(s):  
Stephanie Stockwell ◽  
Brendon Stubbs ◽  
Sarah E. Jackson ◽  
Abi Fisher ◽  
Lin Yang ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Logistic Regression ◽  
Longitudinal Study ◽  
Social Isolation ◽  
Odds Ratio ◽  
The Internet ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Men And Women ◽  
Socially Isolated ◽  
English Longitudinal Study

Abstract The aim of this study was to explore associations between internet/email use in a large sample of older English adults with their social isolation and loneliness. Data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing Wave 8 were used, with complete data available for 4,492 men and women aged ⩾ 50 years (mean age = 64.3, standard deviation = 13.3; 51.7% males). Binomial logistic regression was used to analyse cross-sectional associations between internet/email use and social isolation and loneliness. The majority of older adults reported using the internet/email every day (69.3%), fewer participants reported once a week (8.5%), once a month (2.6%), once every three months (0.7%), less than every three months (1.5%) and never (17.4%). No significant associations were found between internet/email use and loneliness, however, non-linear associations were found for social isolation. Older adults using the internet/email either once a week (odds ratio (OR) = 0.60, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.49–0.72) or once a month (OR = 0.60, 95% CI = 0.45–0.80) were significantly less likely to be socially isolated than every day users; those using internet/email less than once every three months were significantly more likely to be socially isolated than every day users (OR = 2.87, 95% CI = 1.28–6.40). Once every three months and never users showed no difference in social isolation compared with every day users. Weak associations were found between different online activities and loneliness, and strong associations were found with social isolation. The study updated knowledge of older adults’ internet/email habits, devices used and activities engaged in online. Findings may be important for the design of digital behaviour change interventions in older adults, particularly in groups at risk of or interventions targeting loneliness and/or social isolation.

scholarly journals 24 Loneliness, Social Isolation and Frailty Among Older Adults in England: Results From the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing

2021 ◽  
Vol 50 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. i7-i11
Author(s):  
K Davies ◽  
A Maharani ◽  
T Chandola ◽  
C Todd ◽  
N Pendleton
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Longitudinal Study ◽  
Relative Risk ◽  
Social Isolation ◽  
Social Inclusion ◽  
Smoking Status ◽  
Frailty Index ◽  
Isolation Measure ◽  
Socially Isolated ◽  
English Longitudinal Study

Abstract Introduction Ten percent of over 65 s and between a quarter and half of over 85 s are frail. Loneliness and social isolation are associated with increased falls, rates of hospitalisation and mortality. Lonely and socially isolated older adults may also be at risk of frailty. We examined the relationship between loneliness, social isolation and incident frailty among older adults in England longitudinally over 12 years. Methods The study sample are 9,171 older adults aged ≥50 years participating in a population representative longitudinal panel survey, the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing Waves 2–8. To define frailty across the biannual waves, we used the Frailty Index (FI), analysed continuously and into categories (FI ≤0.08 non-frail, 0.08–0.25 pre-frail and ≥ 0.25–1 frail). We used baseline (Wave 2): loneliness measure using the UCLA 3-item loneliness scale; social isolation measure using previously reported method (Banks et al. The Institute for Fiscal Studies. 2006.). Both were categorised into low/medium/high. To examine relationships, we used linear mixed methods modelling (for the continuous FI), and Cox proportional hazard model (for the categorical FI). Results Loneliness (β = 0.023; 95% CI = 0.022, 0.025) and social isolation (β = 0.007; 95% CI = 0.003, 0.010) were significantly associated with increased FI, after adjusting for cofounders (gender, age, marital status, smoking status and wealth). There was a 60% greater relative risk of belonging to the frail class with a medium loneliness score compared to low (HR = 1.570; 95% CI 1.492, 1.652) and a 160% greater relative risk with high loneliness score compared to low (HR = 2.621; 95% CI 2.488, 2.761). Although less pronounced, there was a 1% greater relative risk of developing frailty with a medium social isolation score compared to low (HR = 1.010, 95% CI 1.010, 1.197) and a 30% greater relative risk with high social isolation score compared to low (HR = 1.267; 95% CI 1.154, 1.390). Conclusions Our research indicates both loneliness and social isolation increase risk of developing frailty, expanding on previous evidence. This provides further support to the importance of understanding approaches to promote social inclusion of older adults.

scholarly journals Social contact and inequalities in depression and loneliness among older adults: A mediation analysis of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Michael J Green ◽  
Elise Whitley ◽  
Claire L Niedzwiedz ◽  
Richard J Shaw ◽  
S Vittal Katikireddi
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Longitudinal Study ◽  
Social Inequalities ◽  
Social Contact ◽  
Depression Score ◽  
List Type ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Partner Status ◽  
English Longitudinal Study

AbstractBackgroundSocial contact, including remote contact (by telephone, email, letter or text), could help reduce social inequalities in depression and loneliness among older adults.DesignCross-sectional survey.Participants8th wave of the English Longitudinal Study of Aging (2016/17), stratified by age (n=1,635 aged <65; n=4,123 aged 65+).MethodsInverse probability weighted estimation of average effects of weekly in-person and remote social contact on depression (score of 3+ on 8-item CES-D scale) and two measures of loneliness (sometimes/often feels lonely vs hardly ever/never; and top quintile of UCLA loneliness scale vs all others). We also estimated controlled direct effects of education, partner status, and wealth on loneliness and depression under two scenarios: 1) universal infrequent (<weekly) in-person social contact; and 2) universal weekly remote social contact.ResultsWeekly in-person social contact was associated with reduced odds of depression and loneliness, but associations with remote social contact were weak. Lower education raised odds of depression and loneliness, but differences were attenuated with infrequent in-person contact. Respondents living alone experienced more depression and loneliness than those living with a partner, and less wealth was associated with more depression. With universal infrequent in-person contact, differences narrowed among those aged under 65 but widened among those aged 65+. Universal weekly remote contact had little impact on inequalities.ConclusionsReduced in-person social contact may increase depression and loneliness among older adults, especially for those aged 65+ who live alone. Reliance on remote social contact seems unlikely to compensate for social inequalities.KeypointsIn-person social contact is associated with stronger decreases in depression and loneliness than remote contact.Universal infrequent in-person social contact could reduce educational inequalities in depression and lonelinessAdults aged 65+ who lived alone or were less wealthy were especially at risk with universally infrequent in-person contactUniversal weekly remote social contact had little impact on inequalities in depression and loneliness.

scholarly journals Weight perceptions in older adults: findings from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing

BMJ Open ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (2) ◽  
pp. e033773
Author(s):  
Sarah E Jackson ◽  
Lee Smith ◽  
Andrew Steptoe
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Longitudinal Study ◽  
Weight Perception ◽  
Normal Weight ◽  
Overweight And Obesity ◽  
Older Age ◽  
Men And Women ◽  
Weight Perceptions ◽  
English Longitudinal Study ◽  
Do So

ObjectivesTo explore weight perceptions in a large, nationally representative sample of older adults, and the extent to which they differ according to age and perceived health status.SettingEngland.Participants5240 men and women (≥50 years old) participating in the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (2016/2017).Main outcome measuresWeight perception was self-reported as too heavy, too light or about right.ResultsThe majority of older adults endorsed a weight perception that matched their (objectively measured) body mass index (BMI) classification. However, 1 in 10 (9.9%) older adults classified by BMI as normal weight (18.5–24.9 kg/m2) felt too light, with women at the upper end of the older age spectrum (OR=1.04, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.09), and men (OR=3.70, 95% CI 1.88 to 7.28) and women (OR=2.61, 95% CI 1.27 to 5.35) in poorer health more likely to do so. Almost half (44.8%) of older adults classified as overweight (25–29.9 kg/m2) and 1 in 10 (10.3%) classified as obese (≥30 kg/m2) felt about the right weight, with this observed more frequently among men and women at the upper end of the older age spectrum (OR range 1.04–1.06).ConclusionOlder adults’ perceptions of their own weight generally correspond with traditional BMI cut-offs for normal weight, overweight and obesity. However, a substantial minority ‘underestimate’ their weight status, with those at the upper end of the age spectrum and those in poorer health more likely to do so.

Calcium and Vitamin D Intakes In an Adult Canadian Population

2009 ◽  
Vol 70 (1) ◽  
pp. 21-27 ◽  
Author(s):  
Suzette Poliquin ◽  
Lawrence Joseph ◽  
Katherine Gray-Donald
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Vitamin D ◽  
Longitudinal Study ◽  
Standard Deviation ◽  
Daily Intake ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Food Frequency ◽  
Men And Women ◽  
Canadian Population ◽  
Trained Interviewer

Purpose: Calcium and vitamin D intakes from food and supplements were estimated in Canadian men and women. Methods: Calciumintakes fromboth diet and supplements and vitamin D intakes fromfortifiedmilk and supplements were estimated using cross-sectional data from9423 randomly selected subjects aged 25 years or older, who were participating in a longitudinal study on osteoporosis. Subjects completed an abbreviated food frequency questionnaire administered by a trained interviewer between July 1995 and December 1997. Results: Themean (standard deviation) daily intake for calciumwas estimated to be 1038 (614)mg for women and 904 (583)mg formen; for vitamin D,mean intakes were 5.6 (5.9) μg and 4.8 (5.5) μg for women andmen, respectively. Conclusions: Mean intakes for calcium and vitamin D in men and women under age 51 were close to the adequate daily intake levels. Older adults, however, may be at risk of deficiency.

scholarly journals Association between social isolation and depression onset among older adults: a cross-national longitudinal study in England and Japan

BMJ Open ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (3) ◽  
pp. e045834
Author(s):  
Taiji Noguchi ◽  
Masashige Saito ◽  
Jun Aida ◽  
Noriko Cable ◽  
Taishi Tsuji ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Logistic Regression ◽  
Regression Analysis ◽  
Longitudinal Study ◽  
Social Isolation ◽  
Logistic Regression Analysis ◽  
Social Participation ◽  
Depression Scale ◽  
Multivariable Logistic Regression Analysis ◽  
Multivariable Logistic Regression

ObjectiveSocial isolation is a risk factor for depression in older age. However, little is known regarding whether its impact varies depending on country-specific cultural contexts regarding social relationships. The present study examined the association of social isolation with depression onset among older adults in England, which has taken advanced measures against social isolation, and Japan, a super-aged society with a rapidly increasing number of socially isolated people.DesignProspective longitudinal study.SettingWe used data from two ongoing studies: the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA) and the Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study (JAGES).ParticipantsOlder adults aged ≥65 years without depression at baseline were followed up regarding depression onset for 2 years (2010/2011–2012/2013) for the ELSA and 2.5 years (2010/2011–2013) for the JAGES.Primary outcome measureDepression was assessed with eight items from the Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale for the ELSA and Geriatric Depression Scale for the JAGES. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate social isolation using multiple parameters (marital status; interaction with children, relatives and friends; and social participation).ResultsThe data of 3331 respondents from the ELSA and 33 127 from the JAGES were analysed. Multivariable logistic regression analysis demonstrated that social isolation was significantly associated with depression onset in both countries. In the ELSA, poor interaction with children was marginally associated with depression onset, while in the JAGES, poor interaction with children and no social participation significantly affected depression onset.ConclusionsDespite variations in cultural background, social isolation was associated with depression onset in both England and Japan. Addressing social isolation to safeguard older adults’ mental health must be globally prioritised.

scholarly journals Loneliness and social isolation is associated with sleep problems among older community dwelling women and men with complex needs

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Laurie McLay ◽  
Hamish A. Jamieson ◽  
Karyn G. France ◽  
Philip J. Schluter
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Social Isolation ◽  
Sleep Problems ◽  
Community Dwelling ◽  
National Database ◽  
Longitudinal Analyses ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Insufficient Sleep ◽  
Complex Needs ◽  
Socially Isolated

AbstractSleep problems, loneliness and social isolation often increase with age, significantly impacting older adults’ health and wellbeing. Yet general population health empirical evidence is surprisingly scant. Using the largest national database to date, cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses was undertaken on 140,423 assessments from 95,045 (women: 61.0%) community living older adults aged ≥ 65 years having standardised home care assessments between 1 July 2012 and 31 May 2018 to establish the prevalence and relationships between insufficient sleep, excessive sleep, loneliness and social isolation. At first assessment, insufficient sleep (women: 12.4%, men: 12.7%) was more commonly reported than excessive sleep (women: 4.7%, men: 7.6%). Overall, 23.6% of women and 18.9% of men reported feeling lonely, while 53.8% women and 33.8% men were living alone. In adjusted longitudinal analyses, those who were lonely and socially isolated were more likely to experience insufficient sleep. Respondents with excessive sleep were more likely to live with others. Both loneliness and social isolation contributed to insufficient sleep, synergistically. Loneliness, social isolation and health-concerns may affect the restorative properties of sleep over and above the effects of ageing. Further research is warranted.

scholarly journals Is Physical Activity Associated With Loneliness or Social Isolation in Older Adults? Results of a Longitudinal Analysis Using the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing

2020 ◽  
pp. 1-11
Author(s):  
Ilona I. McMullan ◽  
Brendan P. Bunting ◽  
Annette Burns ◽  
Lee Smith ◽  
Connor Cunningham ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Longitudinal Study ◽  
Los Angeles ◽  
Social Isolation ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Longitudinal Association ◽  
Socially Isolated ◽  
The University ◽  
Health And Well Being

Social relationships are central to the health and well-being of older adults. Evidence exploring the association of physical activity (PA) with social isolation and loneliness is limited. This study uses a path analysis to investigate the longitudinal association between loneliness and social isolation with PA using the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing. Higher levels of social isolation measured using the Berkman–Syme Social Network Index were directly and indirectly associated with lower levels of walking, moderate PA, and vigorous PA over 6 years. Additionally, higher levels of walking were associated with lower levels of loneliness measured using a modified version of the University of California, Los Angeles loneliness scale over a 3-year period. Future interventions should target individuals who are more socially isolated and explore the effects of different types of PA on loneliness over time.

scholarly journals Association between musculoskeletal pain with social isolation and loneliness: analysis of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing

2018 ◽  
Vol 13 (2) ◽  
pp. 82-90 ◽  
Author(s):  
Toby O Smith ◽  
Jack R Dainty ◽  
Esther Williamson ◽  
Kathryn R Martin
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Longitudinal Study ◽  
Los Angeles ◽  
Social Isolation ◽  
Musculoskeletal Pain ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Network Size ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Social Contacts ◽  
English Longitudinal Study

Introduction: Musculoskeletal pain is a prevalent health challenge for all age groups worldwide, but most notably in older adults. Social isolation is the consequence of a decrease in social network size with a reduction in the number of social contacts. Loneliness is the psychological embodiment of social isolation and represents an individual’s perception of dissatisfaction in the quality or quantity of their social contacts. This study aims to determine whether a relationship exists between musculoskeletal pain and social isolation and loneliness. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA) cohort was undertaken. ELSA is a nationally representative sample of the non-institutionalised population of individuals aged 50 years and over based in England. Data were gathered on social isolation through the ELSA Social Isolation Index, loneliness through the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Loneliness Scale and musculoskeletal pain. Data for covariates included physical activity, depression score, socioeconomic status, access to transport and demographic characteristics. Logistic regression analyses were undertaken to determine the relationship between social isolation and loneliness with pain and the additional covariates. Results: A total of 9299 participants were included in the analysis. This included 4125 (44.4%) males, with a mean age of 65.8 years. There was a significant association where social isolation was lower for those in pain (odd ratio (OR): 0.87; 95% confidence intervals (CI): 0.75 to 0.99), whereas the converse occurred for loneliness where this was higher for those in pain (OR: 1.15; 95% CI: 1.01 to 1.31). Age, occupation, physical activity and depression were all associated with increased social isolation and loneliness. Conclusion: People who experience chronic musculoskeletal pain are at greater risk of being lonely, but at less risk of being socially isolated. Health professionals should consider the wider implications of musculoskeletal pain on individuals, to reduce the risk of negative health implications associated with loneliness from impacting on individual’s health and well-being.

scholarly journals 535 - Loneliness and social isolation in attendees of a Psychiatry of Old Age Service in the North West of Ireland: preliminary findings of a cross-sectional study during the COVID- 19 pandemic.

2021 ◽  
Vol 33 (S1) ◽  
pp. 79-80
Author(s):  
Clodagh Rushe ◽  
Kevin Bernadette ◽  
Ericka Maye ◽  
Sweeney Gavin ◽  
McLaughlin Kevin ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Social Isolation ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
North West ◽  
The North ◽  
Socially Isolated ◽  
West Of Ireland

Aims and HypothesisThe primary aim is to establish the prevalence of loneliness and social isolation in older adults referred to a Psychiatry of Old-Age Service in the North-West of Ireland. Secondary aims include exploring associations between loneliness, social isolation and, well-being, depression, cognition and health- status. The overarching aim was to improve patient outcomes by tailoring mental health and social interventions appropriate to patient need.BackgroundLoneliness is a discrepancy between the social-relations one has and their desired level. It is estimated that one third of older adults will experience loneliness, which along with social isolation has links to poorer health-outcomes, reduced quality of life and cognitive decline. Government advice in Ireland to reduce social activity due to COVID-19 pandemic may compound social disconnection. We present preliminary findings of an ongoing study investigating loneliness, social isolation and related factors in older adults referred to a Mental-Health Service in the North-West of Ireland in 2020 - 2021.MethodsUsing a cross-sectional study design, participants completed University of California, Los-Angeles(UCLA) Loneliness Scale (UCLA maximum score =10); and Berkman-Syme Social Network Index. Quality of life is measured using WHO-Well-being Index(WHO-5) with a number of relevant personal, clinical and social factors also captured.ResultsData from 98 questionnaires (January 2020- May 2021), 52% female, showed average participant age was 74.4 years. Average perceived loneliness score was 3.67 and 85.7%, (n=84) reported some loneliness (UCLA >0) with 2% (n=2) reporting high loneliness levels (UCLA =10). The majority, 77.5% (n=76) were socially isolated; 35.7% (n=35) ‘mostly isolated’, 41.8% (n=41) ‘moderately isolated’. Females were noted to be more isolated.ConclusionsPreliminary results illustrate majority of older adults referred to a mental-health service over a time- period spanning COVID-19 pandemic are lonely and socially isolated. This is likely compounded by changes to daily routines during COVID-19 pandemic. This is concerning given the adverse health implications. We hope final results will guide enhancement of clinical-care through linkage of mental- health services with community agencies, social-care supports and e-health technologies.

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