The Relationship Between Loneliness and Geriatric Feelings of Burdensomeness in Hospitalized Older Adults

This study aimed to examine the relationship between loneliness and geriatric feelings of burdensomeness in hospitalized older adults.

The study was conducted with 337 older adults hospitalized in a province in Türkiye. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews between April and July 2025 using the Sociodemographic Information Form, the Loneliness Scale for Older Adults, and the Geriatric Feelings of burdensomeness Scale. Data analysis included descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, minimum, and maximum), Pearson correlation analysis, and simple linear regression analysis.

The mean score on the Loneliness Scale for Older Adults was 10.40 ± 6.31, indicating an acceptable level of loneliness, while the mean score on the Geriatric Feelings of burdensomeness Scale was 55.38 ± 22.57, reflecting a below-average level of burden. A positive, moderate, and statistically significant relationship was found between loneliness and geriatric feelings of burdensomeness (r: 0.529; p < 0.05). Loneliness explained 28% of the variance in geriatric feelings of burdensomeness.

The findings indicate that increased loneliness among hospitalized older adults is associated with heightened geriatric feelings of burdensomeness. In this context, providing psychological assessment and care services for hospitalized older adults with medical conditions through a holistic nursing approach within the scope of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatric Nursing may support mental well-being. In particular, it is recommended to implement empowerment programs aimed at reducing loneliness and perceived burden and to conduct qualitative studies that allow for an in-depth exploration of hospitalization experiences.