Bidirectional Relationships and Mediating Effects Between Social Isolation, Loneliness, and Frailty in Chinese Older Adults.

ABSTRACT:

Background and objectives

Social isolation (SI) and loneliness are key factors that contribute to frailty among older adults. Current estimates regarding how frailty affects SI and loneliness and how SI and loneliness affect frailty may be flawed due to reverse causality. This study aimed to investigate the bidirectional relationships and mediating effects among SI, loneliness, and frailty among older adults in China.

Research design and methods

The study analyzed data from 6 waves of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey conducted between 2002 and 2018. The sample included individuals aged 65 and older. The General Cross-Lagged Panel Model was used to account for confounding factors and reveal mediating effects.

Results

Our findings specifically indicate

SUBMITTER: Pan C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10946306 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature