Prevalence and predictors of loneliness and its association with health-seeking behaviors among the elderly population, Gujarat, A community-based cross-sectional study.
J Family Med Prim Care
; 13(7): 2719-2723, 2024 Jul.
Article
en En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-39070988
ABSTRACT
Objectives:
To determine the prevalence and predictors of loneliness and its associations with health behaviors among elderly adults in Gujarat, India.Methodology:
This community-based cross-sectional study included 250 participants aged ≥60 years. Loneliness was measured using the UCLA Loneliness Scale. Associations with socio-demographic, health, and social factors were explored through regression models. Health behaviors were compared between lonely and non-lonely groups.Results:
The prevalence of moderate and severe loneliness was 24% (n = 60) and 16% (n = 40), respectively. 40% (n = 100) were found to be lonely. Widowhood (55/125, OR 3.67), living alone (75/125, OR 1.85), social isolation (90/125, OR 2.38), recent bereavement (68/125, OR 1.69), depression (85/125, OR 6.52), and disability (70/125, OR 6.35) were significant predictors of loneliness (P < 0.05). Lonely elders had poorer diet, exercise, sleep, increased smoking, screen time, reduced medical checkups, and social engagements versus non-lonely peers (P < 0.05).Conclusion:
Loneliness was highly prevalent among 40% of elderly Indians and strongly linked to adverse health behaviors. Interventions promoting social connectedness, counseling, and peer support are recommended.
Texto completo:
1
Colección:
01-internacional
Base de datos:
MEDLINE
Idioma:
En
Revista:
J Family Med Prim Care
Año:
2024
Tipo del documento:
Article
País de afiliación:
India
Pais de publicación:
India