Sibling Disconnectedness in Midlife and Cognitive Functioning in Later Life: Is Loneliness an Explanatory Factor?
Gina Lee1, Jooyoung Kong2, Deborah Carr3
1Center for Demography of Health and Aging, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.
Journal of Aging and Health
|July 18, 2026
Summary
Older adults experiencing persistent sibling disconnectedness showed no direct cognitive decline. However, this lack of connection was indirectly linked to poorer cognition through increased loneliness.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Social Psychology
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Sibling relationships are long-lasting social bonds crucial for well-being.
- Loss or absence of sibling ties may negatively impact older adults.
- Understanding the link between sibling disconnectedness and cognitive health is important.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the association between sibling disconnectedness and cognitive functioning in older adults.
- To investigate the mediating role of loneliness in this relationship.
Main Methods:
- Utilized four waves of the Wisconsin Longitudinal Study (1993-2020).
- Employed structural equation models for prospective analysis.
- Assessed sibling disconnectedness (midlife), loneliness (late midlife), and cognition (older age).
Main Results:
- Persistent sibling disconnectedness was not directly associated with cognitive decline.
- Sibling disconnectedness was indirectly associated with cognitive functioning via loneliness.
- Loneliness emerged as a significant mediator.
Conclusions:
- Sibling relationships are vital for social support and cognitive engagement in midlife.
- Maintaining sibling connections may be important for preserving cognitive health in later life.
- Loneliness may be a key pathway through which sibling disconnectedness affects cognition.
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