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Predictors of loneliness in centenarians: a parallel study
P Martin1, B Hagberg, L W Poon
1College of Family and Consumer Sciences, Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Iowa State University, Ames 50011, USA. pxmartin@iastate.edu
Journal of Cross-Cultural Gerontology
|November 18, 2003
Summary
Loneliness predictors in centenarians differ between the USA and Sweden. While personality, social support, and physical health were key in the US, cognition and social support were most influential in Sweden.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Social Psychology
- Cross-Cultural Studies
Background:
- Loneliness is a significant concern for centenarians.
- Understanding predictors of loneliness is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify predictors of loneliness in centenarians.
- To compare these predictors between the USA and Sweden.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study design.
- Evaluation of cognition, personality, social support, and physical health as predictors.
- Comparative analysis between US and Swedish centenarian samples.
Main Results:
- In the US: personality, social support, and physical health predicted loneliness.
- In Sweden: cognition and social support were the strongest predictors.
- Social support showed inverse associations with loneliness in the US but a positive association in Sweden.
Conclusions:
- Predictors of loneliness in centenarians vary significantly by country.
- Cultural context and specific factors influence loneliness experiences in extreme old age.
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