Proceedings of 26th Annual Technological Advances in Science, Medicine and Engineering Conference 2022

Loneliness in Later Life: Moving Beyond Behavioural Interventions
Ashvini Gulasingam, Abhinya Gulasingam
Abstract

Individuals 65 years and older who are considered seniors or older adults, are a rapidly growing population, in Canada as well as in the rest of the world. Studies have shown that loneliness is a trend that is anticipated to increase in this population. In order to help limit the negative impacts of loneliness on the health and quality of life in them, it is important to understand the aspects that shape and influence their experiences. Furthermore, research indicated that  social isolation or time spent alone is not an adequate indicator of the development of loneliness. A literature review was conducted using PsychInfo and OMNI, and the key words “loneliness”, “social isolation”, “older people”, “seniors”, “older adults”, “impacts”, “stress” and “quality of life”. Through the papers identified to be directly correlated to the topic of loneliness in later life, it was identified that its influencing factors can be divided into psychological, physiological and health behaviours. The psychological factors most commonly seen are depression, interaction negativity and dysfunctional coping mechanisms. The primary physiological factors associated with loneliness are heightened waking cortisol levels and peripheral resistance as well as decreased cardiovascular health and immune regulation. The behavioural factors related to loneliness are smoking, physical inactivity and sleep irregularities. Additionally, It is important to note that although there is a clear correlation between these influencing factors and the development of feelings of loneliness, the relationship is bidirectional. For example, maladaptive behaviours such as smoking or overeating become prevalent when an individual experiences loneliness causing further negative health outcomes for the individual. Similarly, an individual’s experience of depression can lead to loneliness. Strong social connections and positive mentality are considered protective factors against the development of loneliness. Currently available interventions focus more on fostering strong social connections, and includes options such as behavioural therapy, home visiting and group activities. However, studies  regarding the efficacy of presently available interventions is somewhat lackluster. Preliminary research has indicated that a strong theoretical underpinning is essential to the success of interventions to tackle loneliness. Therefore , future interventions that go beyond social connections to encourage a positive mentality based on the theory of cognitive discrepancy and wisdom, such as schema therapy, should be developed. New research must consider ways to evaluate the efficacy of current interventions and development of interventions that take into consideration cognitive adjustments alongside behavioural adjustments.


Last modified: 2022-08-20
Building: TASME Center
Room: Science Hall
Date: August 28, 2022 - 02:50 PM – 03:05 PM

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