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Loneliness Among Older Adults Receiving Long-Term Home Care Services: A Quantitative Study
Arūnė Česonienė1, Lina Jaruševičienė2, Elizabeth A Capezuti3
1Department of Nursing, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania.
Loneliness affects many older adults receiving home care, particularly those with difficult living situations or poor quality of life. Addressing these factors is crucial for improving well-being and social support in home care services.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Public Health
- Social Sciences
Background:
- Loneliness is a significant global concern impacting older adults' health, quality of life, and longevity.
- Home care services, while beneficial, may not fully address the psychosocial needs of elderly recipients.
- Understanding loneliness factors in this population is vital for improving care strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence of loneliness among older adults receiving home care in Lithuania.
- To examine the associations between loneliness, well-being, and personal characteristics in this demographic.
- To identify key indicators of loneliness within the context of home care services.
Main Methods:
- A quantitative, cross-sectional study was conducted between September and November 2024.
- Validated scales for loneliness, sociodemographic factors, and quality of life were administered to 111 participants aged 65+.
- Statistical analyses included chi-square tests and Spearman's rank correlation to assess associations.
Main Results:
- 43.2% of participants reported feeling lonely.
- Loneliness was significantly associated with living situation (p=.003), restricted physical activity (p=.028), difficulty meeting daily needs (p=.005), and negative emotional well-being (p<.05).
- No significant differences in loneliness were found concerning gender, age, or educational level.
Conclusions:
- Living situation and quality of life emerged as primary indicators of loneliness in older adults receiving home care.
- Loneliness is a complex issue influenced by physical, social, and emotional factors.
- Effective interventions must integrate social support and address psychosocial needs alongside physical care in home-based services.
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