Eun Young Choi|Mateo Farina|Qiao Wu|Jennifer Ailshire
COVID-19 Social Distancing Measures and Loneliness Among Older Adults
University of Southern California|University of Southern California|University of Southern California|University of Southern California
abstract objectives response coronavirus disease 2019 covid19 pandemic older adults advised follow social distancing measures prevent infection however measures may increase risk loneliness current study aimed investigate whether social distancing measures particularly limiting close social interactions associated loneliness among older adults b whether association social distancing measures loneliness moderated sociodemographic characteristics method data fourth wave april 29 may 26 2020 nationally representative understanding america study covid19 survey used data adults 50 years older n 3253 logistic regression models loneliness performed five indicators social distancing measures considered avoiding public spaces gatherings crowds b canceling postponing social activities c social visits close contact within 6 feet people living together e people living together results cancelling postponing social activities avoiding close contact people living together associated 33 odds ratio 133 confidence interval ci 106168 p amplt 05 47 147 ci 109199 p amplt 05 greater odds loneliness respectively furthermore limiting close contact coresidents increased probability loneliness males nonhispanic whites higher levels education income discussion efforts made help older adults maintain social connectedness close others virtual communication methods findings also call special attention vulnerable groups elevated risks loneliness emphasizing need tailored interventions