Bidirectional associations between social isolation, loneliness, and cognitive function among Chinese older adults.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Social isolation (SI), loneliness, and cognitive function (CF) are increasingly acknowledged as significant public health concerns globally. In this study, we aimed to investigate the bidirectional relationships and mediating effects between SI, loneliness, and CF among older adults in China.

Methods

We analysed data from six waves of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey conducted between 2002-18. The sample included individuals aged ≥65 years. We used the general cross-lagged panel model to account for confounding factors and reveal mediating effects.

Results

The findings indicated that SI and loneliness can independently lower CF. Moreover, loneliness may lower CF through SI, and SI may also lower CF through loneliness. Finally, we revealed t

SUBMITTER: Pan C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11931458 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature