Community resources and mental health of older women living alone

The relationship between community resources and mental health was examined in a community sample of 807 women 65 years and older. Results indicate that those living alone are no more depressed or cognitively impaired than those in other living arrangements, but they are less likely to believe someone will be available to assist them for a long or short time or in an emergency. In addition, those living alone who have more neighbors and more children in the neighborhood are more likely to believe short and long-term community care will be available if needed.