| Abstract [eng] |
Loneliness in older adults is a complex phenomenon linked to physical health, social connectionss, and sociodemographic factors. The aim of this study was to assess the significance of physical health indicators in explaining loneliness among older adults, while controlling for social and demographic factors and analyzing their interactions. The study was conducted using data from SHARE (Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe). The sample consisted of 1,405 older adults aged 50 years and older residing in Lithuania. Loneliness was assessed in the study using the 3-item UCLA Loneliness Scale. Physical health indicators (e.g., functional limitations, physical inactivity, chronic diseases, etc.), social activity, and sociodemographic variables were also assessed. It has been found that poorer physical health is associated with higher levels of loneliness, and such physical health indicators as physical activity, subjective health status, functional limitations, and a high medication use are significant predictors of loneliness among older adults. Futhermore, the results showed that the predictive value of physical health indicators for loneliness varies across different age groups.This suggests that the importance of physical health and other factors in the experience of loneliness varies across different stages of aging; therefore, it is important to take into account the differences in physical health and social functioning characteristic of different age groups. |
