Social Disconnectedness and Loneliness: Do Self-Perceptions of Aging Play a Role?

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

Research suggests that self-perceptions of aging (SPA) have effects on physical, mental, cognitive, and emotional well-being among older adults. Few studies have examined the effects of SPA on social well-being. This study investigates the association of SPA with trajectories of social disconnectedness and loneliness in older Americans and explores mechanisms linking SPA and the 2 forms of social isolation.

Methods

We conducted Latent Growth Curve Modeling and path analysis using 3-wave data spanning 8 years (2008/2010-2016/2018) from the Health and Retirement Study. The sample included respondents aged 65 and older (N = 3,597) at baseline (2008/2010). SPA was measured by the Attitudes Toward Own Aging Scale. Social disconnectedness was an index including 6 indica

SUBMITTER: Hu RX 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9071429 | biostudies-literature | 2022 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature