Does Leisure-Time Physical Activity Buffer the Negative Impact of Alcohol Use on Loneliness in Older Adults?

Objectives: We investigated whether participating in moderate-intensity leisure-time physical activity (MLTPA) or vigorous-intensity leisure-time physical activity (VLTPA) moderate the relationship between alcohol consumption and loneliness in older adults. Methods: Data were drawn from the 2025 Health Information National Trends Survey. Hierarchical regression analyses were conducted to examine the moderating effects of MLTPA and VLTPA participation on the relationship between alcohol consumption and loneliness while controlling for age, sex, educational attainment, and household income. Results: Higher levels of alcohol use were associated with greater loneliness, and though VLTPA participation did moderate the relationship between alcohol consumption and loneliness, we did not find MLTPA participation to be associated with a significant reduction in perceived loneliness. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that participation in VLTPA (e.g., weightlifting or circuit training) was more strongly associated with lower levels of loneliness when compared with MLTPA or no activity. Health professionals should consider community based VLTPA programs to reduce loneliness, particularly among those using alcohol.