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Bidirectional associations between social isolation, loneliness, and cognitive function among Chinese older adults

Chaoping Pan^1,2, Na Cao^1,2

¹School of Medical Humanities and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.

Journal of Global Health

|March 21, 2025

Abstract

Background:

Social isolation (SI), loneliness, and cognitive function (CF) are increasingly acknowledged as significant public health concerns globally. In this study, we aimed to investigate the bidirectional relationships and mediating effects between SI, loneliness, and CF among older adults in China.

Methods:

We analysed data from six waves of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey conducted between 2002-18. The sample included individuals aged ≥65 years. We used the general cross-lagged panel model to account for confounding factors and reveal mediating effects.

Results:

The findings indicated that SI and loneliness can independently lower CF. Moreover, loneliness may lower CF through SI, and SI may also lower CF through loneliness. Finally, we revealed that decreased CF can increase SI and loneliness.

Conclusions:

SI and loneliness are significantly intertwined with CF among older adults in China. Interventions aiming at reducing SI, loneliness, and CF should consider the interplay of these factors to enhance the health and well-being of older adults.

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