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Loneliness and Functional Decline in Aging: A Systematic Review
Research in Gerontological Nursing
|May 9, 2023
Summary
Loneliness in older adults is linked to declining function, with evidence suggesting a two-way relationship. Further research is needed to understand the exact causes and biological links between loneliness and functional decline in aging.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Nursing Research
- Public Health
Background:
- Loneliness is a significant issue among older adults (≥65 years) in the United States.
- Loneliness is associated with functional decline in this population.
- Roy's Adaptation Model provides a framework for understanding this relationship.
Approach:
- A comprehensive literature review of PubMed, Medline, and Embase databases was conducted.
- Studies included adults over 60, were peer-reviewed, in English, and measured loneliness and function.
- 47 studies were analyzed to synthesize evidence.
Key Points:
- Most studies focused on correlates and predictors of loneliness, not its direct relationship with function.
- Evidence indicates a bidirectional association between loneliness and functional decline in aging adults.
- Multiple pathways may link loneliness to functional decline in older populations.
Conclusions:
- The relationship between loneliness and functional decline in older adults appears bidirectional.
- Further research is essential to establish causality and elucidate the biological mechanisms involved.
- Understanding these pathways is crucial for developing interventions to support healthy aging.
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