Abstract
Background
Loneliness and social isolation have serious health consequences. Understanding the
causes and extent of social isolation and loneliness for high-risk groups can inform
interventions to address this critical issue.
Aim
This study sought to explore the extent of loneliness and social isolation among older
people with complex chronic conditions, and investigate their perceptions of their
health, well-being and social connections.
Methods
A survey was disseminated between November 2020 and January 2021 via mail to people
enrolled in a chronic disease management program in a regional Australian community.
Findings
Among the 85 respondents, the median number of chronic conditions was four. The most
problematic activity was engagement with usual activities, with 26.2% reporting severe
or extreme problems. More than half of respondents (55.9%) had moderate, severe or
extreme challenges with mobility. Only 9.5% of respondents described having no pain
or discomfort. Despite relatively low levels of loneliness, some respondents still
lacked companionship, felt left out and isolated from others. Only 26.7% of respondents
demonstrated high levels of social connection despite having people to help if needed
or people to socialise with.
Conclusions
Older people are already at risk of loneliness and social isolation because of their
life stage. This study demonstrates that those with chronic conditions experience
reduced social connections related to restrictions in mobility and access to social
networks due to their health. Study findings also emphasised the impact of pain and
lack of mobility on the ability of older people to engage in both everyday and social
activities. Supporting older people with chronic conditions to engage with others
to reduce loneliness and social isolation represents an opportunity to enhance health
outcomes and quality of life, preventing chronic loneliness and depression.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: June 13, 2022
Accepted:
May 27,
2022
Received in revised form:
May 23,
2022
Received:
October 11,
2021
Identification
Copyright
© 2022 Australian College of Nursing Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd.
