Role Identity, Loneliness, and Bereavement During the Pandemic in Japan: A Cross-Sectional Study

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Sociology
• Psychology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted social activities, increasing loneliness and isolation, particularly among middle-aged and older adults in Japan who lost a spouse.
• Limited research exists on pandemic-related bereavement in Japan, highlighting the need to understand its impact on loneliness and social isolation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the links between community role identity, loneliness, and social support in middle-aged and older adults.
• To explore differences in these relationships between individuals who experienced bereavement and those who did not during the pandemic.

Main Methods:

• An internet survey was administered to 322 Japanese adults aged 50-74.
• Participants were categorized into bereavement (n=154) and cohabiting (n=168) groups.
• Key variables included role identity, social capital (trust, reciprocity, membership), loneliness, and social support (family, friendship).

Main Results:

• Higher trust and role identity correlated with lower levels of loneliness.
• Membership in the cohabiting group was associated with reduced loneliness and increased social support.
• Membership in the bereavement group showed no significant relationship with loneliness or social support.

Conclusions:

• Role identity and social capital (trust, reciprocity) are vital protective factors against isolation and loneliness for bereaved individuals.
• Interventions strengthening community ties and social capital may mitigate loneliness in older adults experiencing spousal loss, especially post-pandemic.