Association between social participation and cognitive function among community-dwelling older adults living alone:...

Social disengagement and cognitive decline commonly coexist among older adults, and living alone may be a significant risk factor for cognitive decline. This study aimed to identify differences in variables between older adults living alone and living with others; it also evaluated the association between social participation and cognitive function in older adults living alone.

A secondary analysis was performed using the data collected between June and August 2017 of 10 299 nationally representative adults aged ≥65 years, obtained from the Korean Institute for Health and Social Affairs and the Ministry of Health and Welfare. Chi-square and t tests were used to compare characteristics between the two groups. Multiple linear regression analyses were utilized to examine the association between social participation and cognition, after adjusting for other variables.

Among 10 055 adults, 24% lived alone. Sociodemographic and health-related variables and social participation differed significantly between the two groups. On multiple linear regression, participation in fraternal group activity, religious activity, and contact with siblings and relatives through phone calls or letters contributed significantly to cognitive function in older adults living alone.

Nurses can encourage various intellectually and emotionally stimulating social activities, as they help to maintain and improve the cognitive function of older people living alone.