Development of loneliness and social isolation after spousal loss: A systematic review of longitudinal studies on widowhood.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Spousal loss is a stressful life event that is associated with loneliness and social isolation, both of which affect mental and physical health. The primary objective of this paper was to synthesize longitudinal studies that investigated loneliness and social isolation in widowhood.

Methods

A systematic search of the literature was conducted using three electronic databases. 26 longitudinal studies published through June 2024 were included for further analysis. Participant characteristics, study design, and key findings were extracted.

Results

Most studies were from the United States or Europe, included more widows than widowers, and assessed loneliness in older adults aged >60 years. Loneliness peaked directly following spousal death, but findings were inc

SUBMITTER: Niino K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11735283 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature