1
|
Kuczynski AM, Piccirillo ML, Dora J, Kuehn KS, Halvorson MA, King KM, Kanter JW. Characterizing the momentary association between loneliness, depression, and social interactions: Insights from an ecological momentary assessment study. J Affect Disord 2024; 360:376-386. [PMID: 38823593 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.05.148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
Evidence suggests that loneliness causes people to feel more depressed. It is unknown, however, why this association occurs and whether momentary versus chronic experiences of loneliness are implicated. Theoretical accounts suggest that momentary feelings of loneliness produce two competing motivations: social reaffiliation and social withdrawal. Social affiliation is protective against depression; social withdrawal, in contrast, is a risk factor. Thus, engaging in frequent and high-quality interactions following experiences of loneliness may protect against subsequent depression. We tested this hypothesis using a random-interval experience sampling design (5x/day/day, 14 days; Nobs = 6568) with a racially/ethnically diverse sample of adults with elevated depression symptoms (N = 102). Momentary loneliness was associated with depressed mood at the same time point and ∼2.5h and ∼5h later. Frequency and quality of social interaction did not moderate these associations. Findings suggest that momentary feelings of loneliness may be an important target for clinical intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adam M Kuczynski
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, United States of America.
| | | | - Jonas Dora
- Department of Psychology, University of Washington, United States of America
| | - Kevin S Kuehn
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, United States of America
| | - Max A Halvorson
- School of Social Work, University of Washington, United States of America
| | - Kevin M King
- Department of Psychology, University of Washington, United States of America
| | - Jonathan W Kanter
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Li L, Carrino L, Reinhard E, Avendano M. Has the UK Campaign to End Loneliness Reduced Loneliness and Improved Mental Health in Older Age? A Difference-in-Differences Design. Am J Geriatr Psychiatry 2024; 32:358-372. [PMID: 37978020 DOI: 10.1016/j.jagp.2023.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate the impact of the UK nationwide campaign to End loneliness on loneliness and mental health outcomes among older people in England. DESIGN Quasi-experimental design, namely, a difference-in-differences approach. SETTING Local authorities across England. PARTICIPANTS Older adults aged 65 and over participating in waves 4-8 (2008-2017) of the English Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSA) and waves 1-9 (2009-2019) of the UK Household Longitudinal Study (UKHLS). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Loneliness was measured through the UCLA Loneliness scale. A social isolation scale with components of household composition, social contact and participation was constructed. Mental health was measured by The Centre for Epidemiological Studies of Depression (CES-D) score, the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) score, and the Short-Form-12 Mental Component Summary (SF-12 MCS) score. RESULTS There was no evidence of change in loneliness scores over the study period. Difference-in-differences estimates suggest that explicitly developed and implemented antiloneliness strategies led to no change in loneliness scores (estimate = 0.044, SE = 0.085), social isolation caseness (estimate = 0.038, SE = 0.020) or levels of depressive symptoms (estimate = 0.130, SE = 0.165). Heterogeneity analyses indicate that antiloneliness strategies produced little impact on loneliness or mental health overall, despite small reductions in loneliness and increases in social engagement among well-educated and higher-income older adults. The results were robust to various sensitivity and robustness analyses. CONCLUSIONS Antiloneliness strategies implemented by local authorities have not generated a significant change in loneliness or mental health in older adults in England. Generating changes in loneliness in the older population might require longer periods of exposure, larger scope of intervention or more targeted strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liming Li
- Department of Global Health & Social Medicine (LL, LC, ER, MA), King's College London, London, UK; Department of Sociology (LL), University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Ludovico Carrino
- Department of Global Health & Social Medicine (LL, LC, ER, MA), King's College London, London, UK; Department of Economics (LC), Business, Mathematics and Statistics, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Erica Reinhard
- Department of Global Health & Social Medicine (LL, LC, ER, MA), King's College London, London, UK
| | - Mauricio Avendano
- Department of Global Health & Social Medicine (LL, LC, ER, MA), King's College London, London, UK; Department of Epidemiology and Health Systems (MA), Centre for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kiive E, Kanarik M, Veidebaum T, Harro J. Neuropeptide Y gene variants and Agreeableness: interaction effect with the birth cohort and the serotonin transporter promoter polymorphism. Acta Neuropsychiatr 2024; 36:1-8. [PMID: 37070394 DOI: 10.1017/neu.2023.23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Neuropeptide Y (NPY) is a powerful regulator of anxious states, including social anxiety, but evidence from human genetic studies is limited. Associations of common gene variants with behaviour have been described as subject to birth cohort effects, especially if the behaviour is socially motivated. This study aimed to examine the association of NPY rs16147 and rs5574 with personality traits in highly representative samples of two birth cohorts of young adults, the samples having been formed during a period of rapid societal transition. METHODS Both birth cohorts (original n = 1238) of the Estonian Children Personality Behaviour and Health Study (ECPBHS) self-reported personality traits of the five-factor model at 25 years of age. RESULTS A significant interaction effect of the NPY rs16147 and rs5574 and birth cohort on Agreeableness was found. The T/T genotype of NPY rs16147 resulted in low Agreeableness in the older cohort (born 1983) and in high Agreeableness in the younger cohort (born 1989). The C/C genotype of NPY rs5574 was associated with higher Agreeableness in the younger but not in the older cohort. In the NPY rs16147 T/T homozygotes, the deviations from average in Agreeableness within the birth cohort were dependent on the serotonin transporter promoter polymorphism. CONCLUSIONS The association between the NPY gene variants and a personality domain reflecting social desirability is subject to change qualitatively in times of rapid societal changes, serving as an example of the relationship between the plasticity genes and environment. The underlying mechanism may involve the development of the serotonergic system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn Kiive
- Division of Special Education, Department of Education, University of Tartu, Jakobi 5, 51005 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Margus Kanarik
- Division of Neuropsychopharmacology, Department of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14A, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Toomas Veidebaum
- Department of Chronic Diseases, National Institute for Health Development, Hiiu 42, 11619 Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Jaanus Harro
- Division of Neuropsychopharmacology, Department of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14A, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Paquet C, Whitehead J, Shah R, Adams AM, Dooley D, Spreng RN, Aunio AL, Dubé L. Social Prescription Interventions Addressing Social Isolation and Loneliness in Older Adults: Meta-Review Integrating On-the-Ground Resources. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e40213. [PMID: 37195738 PMCID: PMC10233446 DOI: 10.2196/40213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social prescription programs represent a viable solution to linking primary care patients to nonmedical community resources for improving patient well-being. However, their success depends on the integration of patient needs with local resources. This integration could be accelerated by digital tools that use expressive ontology to organize knowledge resources, thus enabling the seamless navigation of diverse community interventions and services tailored to the needs of individual users. This infrastructure bears particular relevance for older adults, who experience a range of social needs that impact their health, including social isolation and loneliness. An essential first step in enabling knowledge mobilization and the successful implementation of social prescription initiatives to meet the social needs of older adults is to incorporate the evidence-based academic literature on what works, with on-the-ground solutions in the community. OBJECTIVE This study aims to integrate scientific evidence with on-the-ground knowledge to build a comprehensive list of intervention terms and keywords related to reducing social isolation and loneliness in older adults. METHODS A meta-review was conducted using a search strategy combining terms related to older adult population, social isolation and loneliness, and study types relevant to reviews using 5 databases. Review extraction included intervention characteristics, outcomes (social [eg, loneliness, social isolation, and social support] or mental health [eg, psychological well-being, depression, and anxiety]), and effectiveness (reported as consistent, mixed, or not supported). Terms related to identified intervention types were extracted from the reviewed literature as well as descriptions of corresponding community services in Montréal, Canada, available from web-based regional, municipal, and community data sources. RESULTS The meta-review identified 11 intervention types addressing social isolation and loneliness in older adults by either increasing social interactions, providing instrumental support, promoting mental and physical well-being, or providing home and community care. Group-based social activities, support groups with educational elements, recreational activities, and training or use of information and communication technologies were the most effective in improving outcomes. Examples of most intervention types were found in community data sources. Terms derived from the literature that were the most commonly congruent with those describing existing community services were related to telehealth, recreational activities, and psychological therapy. However, several discrepancies were observed between review-based terms and those addressing the available services. CONCLUSIONS A range of interventions found to be effective at addressing social isolation and loneliness or their impact on mental health were identified from the literature, and many of these interventions were represented in services available to older residents in Montréal, Canada. However, different terms were occasionally used to describe or categorize similar services across data sources. Establishing an efficient means of identifying and structuring such sources is important to facilitate referrals and help-seeking behaviors of older adults and for strategic planning of resources.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Paquet
- Département de Marketing, Faculté des Sciences de l'Administration, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Centre de Recherche, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada
- Centre Nutrition, Santé et Société (NUTRISS), Institut sur la Nutrition et les Aliments Fonctionnels (INAF), Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Jocelyne Whitehead
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Desautels Faculty of Management, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- McGill Centre for the Convergence of Health and Economics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Rishabh Shah
- Desautels Faculty of Management, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- McGill Centre for the Convergence of Health and Economics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Alayne Mary Adams
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Damion Dooley
- Centre for Infectious Disease Genomics and One Health, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - R Nathan Spreng
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Laurette Dubé
- Desautels Faculty of Management, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- McGill Centre for the Convergence of Health and Economics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Barger SD, Lininger MR, Trotter RT, Mbegbu M, Kyman S, Tucker-Morgan K, Wood C, Coyne B, Russakoff B, Ceniceros K, Padilla C, Maltinsky S, Pearson T. Cross-sectional study of the association of social relationship resources with Staphylococcus aureus colonization in naturally occurring social groups along the US/Mexico border. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0284400. [PMID: 37053196 PMCID: PMC10101449 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0284400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Asymptomatic carriage of Staphylococcus aureus is a major risk factor for subsequent clinical infection. Diminishing returns from mitigation efforts emphasize the need to better understand colonization, spread, and transmission of this opportunistic pathogen. While contact with other people presents opportunities for pathogen exposure and transmission, diversity of social connections may be protective against pathogens such as the common cold. This study examined whether social relationship resources, including the amount and diversity of social contacts, are associated with S. aureus colonization. Participants were community members (N = 443; 68% Hispanic) in naturally occurring social groups in southwestern Arizona. Four types of social relationships and loneliness were assessed, and samples from the skin, nose and throat were obtained to ascertain S. aureus colonization. Overall S. aureus prevalence was 64.8%. Neither the amount nor the diversity of social contacts were associated with S. aureus colonization. The concurrent validity of the social relationship assessments was supported by their moderate intercorrelations and by their positive association with self-rated health. The results suggest that the association of social network diversity and susceptibility to the common cold does not extend to S. aureus colonization. Conversely, colonization prevalence was not higher among those with more social contacts. The latter pattern suggests that social transmission may be relatively infrequent or that more intimate forms of social interaction may drive transmission and colonization resulting in high community prevalence of S. aureus colonization. These data inform communicable disease control efforts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steven D. Barger
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States of America
| | - Monica R. Lininger
- Department of Physical Therapy and Athletic Training, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States of America
| | - Robert T. Trotter
- Center for Health Equity Research, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States of America
- Department of Anthropology, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States of America
| | - Mimi Mbegbu
- Pathogen & Microbiome Institute, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States of America
| | - Shari Kyman
- Pathogen & Microbiome Institute, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States of America
| | | | - Colin Wood
- Pathogen & Microbiome Institute, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States of America
| | - Briana Coyne
- Pathogen & Microbiome Institute, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States of America
| | - Benjamin Russakoff
- Pathogen & Microbiome Institute, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States of America
| | - Kathya Ceniceros
- Northern Arizona University, Yuma, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Cristina Padilla
- Northern Arizona University, Yuma, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Sara Maltinsky
- Pathogen & Microbiome Institute, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States of America
| | - Talima Pearson
- Center for Health Equity Research, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States of America
- Pathogen & Microbiome Institute, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Cardona M, Andrés P. Are social isolation and loneliness associated with cognitive decline in ageing? Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1075563. [PMID: 36909946 PMCID: PMC9995915 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1075563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Social isolation and loneliness are associated with poor health (immunity, inflammation, etc.) in ageing. The purpose of this scoping review was to investigate the link between social isolation, loneliness (as distinct constructs, in contrast to previous published work) and cognition in cognitively healthy older adults. Method We followed PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Our search, conducted between January 2017 and April 2021, yielded 2,673 articles, of which, twelve longitudinal studies were finally identified as meeting the inclusion criteria. Multiple cognitive functions (short-term and episodic memory, attention, and global cognitive functioning) were measured. Results The results showed that both social isolation and loneliness were associated with poor cognition in ageing, with depression as a possible mediator between loneliness and poor cognition. Some studies also suggested that the link between social isolation, loneliness and cognitive decline may be bidirectional. Conclusion We conclude that both social isolation and loneliness may have a different impact on cognition. While depression may be an important mediator between loneliness and cognitive decline, the lack of cognitive stimulation may be a greater mediator between social isolation and cognitive health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margalida Cardona
- Neuropsychology and Cognition Research Group, Department of Psychology, University of the Balearic Islands, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
| | - Pilar Andrés
- Neuropsychology and Cognition Research Group, Department of Psychology, University of the Balearic Islands, Palma de Mallorca, Spain.,Research Institute (IdISBa), Palma de Mallorca, Spain.,Research Institute on Health Sciences (IUNICS), Palma de Mallorca, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Imai A, Matsuoka T, Narumoto J. Older people with severe loneliness have an atrophied thalamus, hippocampus, and entorhinal cortex. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2022; 37. [PMID: 36394171 DOI: 10.1002/gps.5845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Loneliness has been shown to increase the risk of dementia. However, it is unclear why greater loneliness is associated with greater susceptibility to dementia. Herein, we aimed to examine the morphological characteristics of the brain associated with loneliness in older people concerned about cognitive dysfunction. METHODS In this retrospective study, 110 participants (80 with amnestic mild cognitive impairment, and 30 cognitively healthy individuals) were included. Participants were assessed using the revised University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) loneliness scale and had undergone magnetic resonance imaging. Spearman correlation analysis and Mann-Whitney U tests were used to examine the clinical factors associated with loneliness. Multiple regression was performed to examine the relationship between the revised UCLA loneliness scale score and regional gray matter (GM) volume on voxel-based morphometry. RESULTS The revised UCLA loneliness scale scores were not significantly correlated with age, sex, or mini-mental state examination (MMSE) scores. Multiple regression using age, sex, MMSE score, and total brain volume as covariates showed negative correlations of the revised UCLA loneliness scale scores with the grey matter volume in regions centered on the bilateral thalamus, left hippocampus and left parahippocampal gyrus, and left entorhinal area. CONCLUSIONS Subjective loneliness was associated with decreased GM volume in the bilateral thalamus, left hippocampus, and left entorhinal cortex of the brain in the older people, thereby providing a morphological basis for the increased risk of dementia associated with greater loneliness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ayu Imai
- Department of Psychiatry, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Teruyuki Matsuoka
- Department of Psychiatry, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Jin Narumoto
- Department of Psychiatry, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Mann F, Wang J, Pearce E, Ma R, Schlief M, Lloyd-Evans B, Ikhtabi S, Johnson S. Loneliness and the onset of new mental health problems in the general population. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2022; 57:2161-2178. [PMID: 35583561 PMCID: PMC9636084 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-022-02261-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Loneliness is associated with poor health including premature mortality. There are cross-sectional associations with depression, anxiety, psychosis, and other mental health outcomes. However, it is not known whether loneliness is causally linked with the new onset of mental health problems in the general population. Longitudinal studies are key to understanding this relationship. We synthesized evidence from longitudinal studies investigating the relationship between loneliness and new onset of mental health problems, in the general population. METHOD We systematically searched six electronic databases, unpublished sources, and hand-searched references, up to August 2021. We conducted a meta-analysis of eight independent cohorts and narrative synthesis of the remaining studies. RESULTS We included 32 studies, of which the majority focused on depression. Our narrative synthesis found most studies show loneliness at baseline which is associated with the subsequent new onset of depression. The few studies on anxiety and self-harm also showed a positive association. Our meta-analysis found a pooled adjusted odds ratio of 2.33 (95% CI 1.62-3.34) for risk of new onset depression in adults who were often lonely compared with people who were not often lonely. This should be interpreted with caution given evidence of heterogeneity. CONCLUSION Loneliness is a public mental health issue. There is growing evidence it is associated with the onset of depression and other common mental health problems. Future studies should explore its impact across the age range and in more diverse populations, look beyond depression, and explore the mechanisms involved with a view to better informing appropriate interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Farhana Mann
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, Wing B, 6th Floor, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7NF, UK.
| | - Jingyi Wang
- School of Public Health Shanghai, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Eiluned Pearce
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, Wing B, 6th Floor, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7NF, UK
| | - Ruimin Ma
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Merle Schlief
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, Wing B, 6th Floor, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7NF, UK
| | - Brynmor Lloyd-Evans
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, Wing B, 6th Floor, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7NF, UK
| | - Sarah Ikhtabi
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, Wing B, 6th Floor, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7NF, UK
| | - Sonia Johnson
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, Wing B, 6th Floor, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7NF, UK
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Liebmann M, Pitman A, Hsueh YC, Bertotti M, Pearce E. Do people perceive benefits in the use of social prescribing to address loneliness and/or social isolation? A qualitative meta-synthesis of the literature. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1264. [PMID: 36261835 PMCID: PMC9580419 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08656-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Social prescribing is a means by which clinical services can link individuals who have psychological, social and/or practical needs with non-clinical services within their local community. There is a lack of empirical evidence investigating whether social prescribing helps such individuals and which interventions are the most effective and accepted by them to address their loneliness. This meta-synthesis aimed to synthesise findings from qualitative studies exploring experiences of people (of any age) who participated in any social prescribing intervention aimed at loneliness and/or social isolation to ascertain whether they felt it helped address loneliness/isolation and the potential mechanisms by which this might occur. We conducted a systematic search of 5 electronic databases and 4 other databases that would yield grey literature in April 2021 to identify qualitative articles on this topic written in English or French. We assessed the quality of the included studies using recognised tools, and synthesised findings using the approach of thematic analysis. We identified 19 records analysed (e.g. journal articles) from 18 studies meeting inclusion criteria. Our analysis identified three themes: (1) increased sense of wellbeing (with six subthemes), (2) factors that engendered an ongoing desire to connect with others, and (3) perceived drawbacks of social prescribing. These themes illustrate the benefits and difficulties people perceive in social prescribing programmes addressing loneliness and social isolation, with an overall balance of more benefits than drawbacks in social prescribing participation. However, given the unhelpful aspects of social prescribing identified by some participants, greater thought should be given to potential harms. Moreover, further qualitative and quantitative research is needed to better understand mechanisms and effectiveness, and how different components of social prescribing might be best matched to individual participants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Liebmann
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Rd, London, W1T 7BN, UK
| | - A Pitman
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Rd, London, W1T 7BN, UK.
| | - Yung-Chia Hsueh
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Rd, London, W1T 7BN, UK
| | - M Bertotti
- Institute for Connected Communities, University of East London, Water Lane, London, E15 4LZ, UK
| | - E Pearce
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Rd, London, W1T 7BN, UK
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
The longitudinal association between loneliness and depressive symptoms in the elderly: a systematic review. Int Psychogeriatr 2022; 34:657-669. [PMID: 33849675 DOI: 10.1017/s1041610221000399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Loneliness and the onset of depression in old age are growing problems related to the greater life expectancy nowadays. This review investigated the longitudinal association between loneliness and depressive symptoms in the elderly. DESIGN A comprehensive search was conducted using three databases (Scopus, PsycInfo, and PubMed) combing for empirical studies published up until July 2020. A total of 4.549 abstracts and 221 full-text articles were assessed. Three authors independently reviewed titles and abstracts; disagreements were resolved by consensus. RESULTS Ten studies were included in the final review. We identified two categories of studies based on the outcome considered in each article: 1) the longitudinal effect of loneliness on depressive symptoms and 2) the clinical course of depression and its association with loneliness. All the articles reported a significant and positive association between loneliness and depressive symptoms in their longitudinal design research, ranging from an odds ratio of 0.41 to 17.76. The heterogeneity regarding the effect size in the analyses can be explained by the multifactorial design implemented by most of the studies included. CONCLUSIONS Future research should investigate the moderators' role and how it may influence the longitudinal association between loneliness and depression over the years.
Collapse
|
11
|
Accuracy of 12 short versions of the Geriatric Depression Scale to detect depression in a prospective study of a high-risk population with different levels of cognition. Int Psychogeriatr 2022; 34:479-488. [PMID: 31747979 DOI: 10.1017/s1041610219001650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the accuracy of 12 previously validated short versions of the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) to detect major depressive disorder (MDD) in a high-risk population with and without global cognitive impairment. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Five hospitals, Western Sweden. PARTICIPANTS Older adults (age ≥70 years, n = 60) assessed at a home visit 1 year after hospital care in connection with suicide attempt. MEASUREMENTS Depression symptoms were rated using the established 15-item GDS. Eleven short GDS versions identified by a recent systematic review were derived from this administered version. Receiver operating characteristic curves and area under the curve (AUC) for the identification of MDD diagnosed according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, were obtained for each version. The Youden Index optimal criterion was used to determine the appropriate cutoffs. Analyses were repeated after stratification by cognitive status (Mini Mental State Examination score ≤24 and >24) for the best performing GDS short versions and the established 15-item GDS. RESULTS The 7-item GDS according to Broekman et al. (), with a cutoff 3, was the most accurate among the 12 short versions (AUC 0.90, 95% confidence interval 0.80-1.00), identifying MDD with sensitivity 88% and specificity 81%. The cutoff score remained consistent in the presence of global cognitive impairment, which was not the case for the standardized 15-item GDS. CONCLUSION The Broekman 7-item GDS had high accuracy to detect MDD in this prospective clinical cohort at high risk for MDD. Further testing of GDS short versions in diverse settings is required.
Collapse
|
12
|
Lee SL, Pearce E, Ajnakina O, Johnson S, Lewis G, Mann F, Pitman A, Solmi F, Sommerlad A, Steptoe A, Tymoszuk U, Lewis G. The association between loneliness and depressive symptoms among adults aged 50 years and older: a 12-year population-based cohort study. Lancet Psychiatry 2021; 8:48-57. [PMID: 33181096 PMCID: PMC8009277 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(20)30383-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 165] [Impact Index Per Article: 55.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loneliness is experienced by a third of older adults in the UK and is a modifiable potential risk factor for depressive symptoms. It is unclear how the association between loneliness and depressive symptoms persists over time, and whether it is independent of related social constructs and genetic confounders. We aimed to investigate the association between loneliness and depressive symptoms, assessed on multiple occasions during 12 years of follow-up, in a large, nationally representative cohort of adults aged 50 years and older in England. METHODS We did a longitudinal study using seven waves of data that were collected once every 2 years between 2004 and 2017, from adults aged 50 years and older in the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA). The exposure was loneliness at baseline (wave two), measured with the short 1980 revision of the University of California, Los Angeles Loneliness Scale (R-UCLA). The primary outcome was a score indicating severity of depression measured at six subsequent timepoints (waves three to eight), using the eight-item version of the Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D). Analyses were linear multilevel regressions, before and after adjusting for social isolation, social support, polygenic risk scores, and other sociodemographic and health-related confounders. The secondary outcome was depression diagnosis, measured using a binary version of the CES-D. FINDINGS 4211 (46%) of 9171 eligible participants had complete data on exposure, outcome, and confounders, and were included in our complete case sample. After all adjustments, a 1-point increase in loneliness score was associated with a 0·16 (95% CI 0·13-0·19) increase in depressive symptom severity score (averaged across all follow-ups). We estimated a population attributable fraction for depression associated with loneliness of 18% (95% CI 12-24) at 1 year of follow-up and 11% (3-19) at the final follow-up (wave eight), suggesting that 11-18% of cases of depression could potentially be prevented if loneliness were eliminated. Associations between loneliness and depressive symptoms remained after 12 years of follow-up, although effect sizes were smaller with longer follow-up. INTERPRETATION Irrespective of other social experiences, higher loneliness scores at baseline were associated with higher depression symptom severity scores during 12 years of follow-up among adults aged 50 years and older. Interventions that reduce loneliness could prevent or reduce depression in older adults, which presents a growing public health problem worldwide. FUNDING National Institute on Aging and a consortium of UK Government departments coordinated by the National Institute for Health Research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siu Long Lee
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Eiluned Pearce
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Olesya Ajnakina
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, UK; Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Sonia Johnson
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK; Camden and Islington National Health Service Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Glyn Lewis
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK; Camden and Islington National Health Service Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Farhana Mann
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK; Camden and Islington National Health Service Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Alexandra Pitman
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK; Camden and Islington National Health Service Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Francesca Solmi
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Andrew Sommerlad
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK; Camden and Islington National Health Service Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Andrew Steptoe
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Urszula Tymoszuk
- Centre for Performance Science, Royal College of Music, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Gemma Lewis
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Achterbergh L, Pitman A, Birken M, Pearce E, Sno H, Johnson S. The experience of loneliness among young people with depression: a qualitative meta-synthesis of the literature. BMC Psychiatry 2020; 20:415. [PMID: 32831064 PMCID: PMC7444250 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-020-02818-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young people have a higher prevalence of loneliness than other age groups, and they are also at risk of depression. Quantitative studies describe a bidirectional association between loneliness and depression, but there is limited understanding of how these influence each other. Little is known about the experience of loneliness among young people with depression. Qualitative approaches may help understand the relationship between loneliness and depression among young people, and how to intervene to improve outcomes. We aimed to conduct a meta-synthesis to understand the complex inter-relationship between loneliness and depression among young depressed people by synthesising evidence from a systematic review of qualitative studies. METHODS We conducted a meta-synthesis of qualitative studies capturing experiences of loneliness among young people with depression. We systematically searched six electronic databases for selected search terms, critically appraised eligible studies, and analysed the data from included studies using the approach of thematic synthesis. We used feedback from an inter-disciplinary research workshop to improve reflexivity. RESULTS Our inclusion criteria identified fourteen studies. Our analysis identified four themes: (1) social withdrawal due to poor mental health, (2) non-disclosure of depression contributing to social distance, (3) the desire to connect, and (4) paradoxes of loneliness and depression. These themes illustrated a range of pathways between depression and loneliness, and a sense of how these might be mutually reinforcing. Our findings suggest that where depressed individuals engage in certain behaviours (withdrawing; not confiding) for a range of reasons, this can lead to feelings of loneliness, an awareness of which worsens their mood, thus perpetuating their depression. CONCLUSIONS Young people with depression experience loneliness as an insurmountable distance between themselves and others. Our findings identified non-disclosure of depression, and the debilitating nature of the depressive symptomatology, as factors perpetuating a vicious cycle of loneliness and depression. They suggest that approaches to tackling the problem might include helping young people communicate about their depression to trusted friends and educating their social networks in how to support them. The wider research literature suggests that cognitive interventions may have a role in shifting maladaptive cognitions about their social world.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Louis Achterbergh
- UCL Division of Psychiatry, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7NF, UK. .,Amsterdam UMC, location AMC (University of Amsterdam), Meibergdreef 9, 1105, Amsterdam, AZ, Netherlands.
| | - Alexandra Pitman
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201UCL Division of Psychiatry, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7NF UK ,grid.439468.4Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, St Pancras Hospital, 4 St Pancras Way, London, NW1 0PE UK
| | - Mary Birken
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201UCL Division of Psychiatry, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7NF UK
| | - Eiluned Pearce
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201UCL Division of Psychiatry, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7NF UK
| | - Herman Sno
- grid.7177.60000000084992262Amsterdam UMC, location AMC (University of Amsterdam), Meibergdreef 9, 1105 Amsterdam, AZ Netherlands
| | - Sonia Johnson
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201UCL Division of Psychiatry, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7NF UK ,grid.439468.4Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, St Pancras Hospital, 4 St Pancras Way, London, NW1 0PE UK
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Sjöberg L, Fratiglioni L, Lövdén M, Wang HX. Low Mood and Risk of Dementia: The Role of Marital Status and Living Situation. Am J Geriatr Psychiatry 2020; 28:33-44. [PMID: 31522861 DOI: 10.1016/j.jagp.2019.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 08/13/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to explore whether low mood is related to an increased dementia risk in two cohorts of older adults of different generations, and whether marital status and living situation modify this association. METHODS Participants (≥70 years), free from dementia and living at home, were identified from two population-based studies: the Kungsholmen Project (KP; n = 1,197) and the Swedish National Study on Aging and Care in Kungsholmen (SNAC-K; n = 1,402). Low mood was obtained by self-report (KP and SNAC-K) at baseline in 1987-89 (KP) and 2001-04 (SNAC-K). Incident dementia cases were ascertained over 9 years, using the same diagnostic procedures and comparable criteria for the two cohorts (DSM-III-R in KP and DSM-IV-TR in SNAC-K). Hazard ratios (HR) were derived from Cox proportional hazards models. RESULTS Those having low mood at baseline were at higher risk of dementia in both cohorts combined (HR: 1.2, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.0-1.4) than those without low mood. However, an increased risk was detected only in those who did not have a partner (HR: 1.5, 95% CI: 1.2-1.9), or lived alone (HR: 1.5, 95% CI: 1.2-1.9), but not among those who had a partner or lived with someone (HR: 0.8, 95% CI: 0.5-1.2). CONCLUSION Marital status and living situation have the potential to buffer the detrimental effects of low mood on dementia onset. Thus, specific attention from health care should target individuals having low mood and who do not have a partner or live alone.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linnea Sjöberg
- Department of Neurobiology, Aging Research Center, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm University (LS, LF. ML, H-XW), Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Laura Fratiglioni
- Department of Neurobiology, Aging Research Center, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm University (LS, LF. ML, H-XW), Stockholm, Sweden; Stockholm Gerontology Research Center (LF), Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Martin Lövdén
- Department of Neurobiology, Aging Research Center, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm University (LS, LF. ML, H-XW), Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hui-Xin Wang
- Department of Neurobiology, Aging Research Center, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm University (LS, LF. ML, H-XW), Stockholm, Sweden; Stress Research Institute, Stockholm University (H-XW), Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Falk Erhag H, Ahlner F, Rydberg Sterner T, Skoog I, Bergström A. Internet use and self-rated health among Swedish 70-year-olds: a cross-sectional study. BMC Geriatr 2019; 19:365. [PMID: 31870313 PMCID: PMC6929471 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-019-1392-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Internet is increasingly becoming an infrastructure for a number of services, both commercial, public (including health related) and personal. Using the internet have the potential to promote social interaction and social connectedness by upholding social networks and social contacts. However, Internet use is lower in older adults compared to other age groups. This digital divide is considered a risk to the health of older adults since it limits their participation in society, access and use of relevant health related information and services. This study focuses on whether there is an association between Internet use and self-rated health. Method A cross-sectional population-based sample of 70-year-olds from The Gothenburg H70 Birth Cohort Study (n = 1136) was examined in 2014–16. All data was collected using structured interviews and questionnaires. Differences in proportions were tested with chi-square test and ordinary least square regression analysis was used to estimate the relationship between Internet use and self-rated health controlling for health factors, hearing and visual impairment, and social contacts. Results There is a relationship between more frequent Internet use and good self-rated health (unstandardized β 0.101 p < 0.001), and the effect remained after adjusting for all covariates (unstandardized β 0.082 p < 0.001). Our results also show that, in comparison to health factors, Internet use is of minor importance to the SRH of older adults, since adding these improved the explanatory power of the model by approximately 400% (from 0.04 to 0.18). Conclusion Although the direction of the relationship between more frequent interne use and better self-rated health is undetermined in the present study, it can be suggested that using the Internet informs and educates older adults, strengthening their position as active and engaged participants of society. It can also be suggested that those using the Internet report less loneliness and a possibility to establish new computer-mediated relationships within online communities. Further research needs to examine what aspects of Internet use, and in what contexts such positive perceptions arise.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Falk Erhag
- Neuropsychiatric Epidemiology Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Wallinsgatan 6, S-431 41, Molndal, Sweden. .,Age Cap - Centre for Ageing and Health, University of Gothenburg, Wallinsgatan 6, S-431 41, Mölndal, Sweden.
| | - Felicia Ahlner
- Neuropsychiatric Epidemiology Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Wallinsgatan 6, S-431 41, Molndal, Sweden.,Age Cap - Centre for Ageing and Health, University of Gothenburg, Wallinsgatan 6, S-431 41, Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Therese Rydberg Sterner
- Neuropsychiatric Epidemiology Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Wallinsgatan 6, S-431 41, Molndal, Sweden.,Age Cap - Centre for Ageing and Health, University of Gothenburg, Wallinsgatan 6, S-431 41, Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Ingmar Skoog
- Neuropsychiatric Epidemiology Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Wallinsgatan 6, S-431 41, Molndal, Sweden.,Age Cap - Centre for Ageing and Health, University of Gothenburg, Wallinsgatan 6, S-431 41, Mölndal, Sweden.,Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Department of Neuropsychiatry, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Annika Bergström
- Age Cap - Centre for Ageing and Health, University of Gothenburg, Wallinsgatan 6, S-431 41, Mölndal, Sweden.,Department of Journalism, Media and Communication, University of Gothenburg, PO Box 100, S-405 30, Gothenburg, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Power JEM, Sjöberg L, Kee F, Kenny RA, Lawlor B. Comparisons of the discrepancy between loneliness and social isolation across Ireland and Sweden: findings from TILDA and SNAC-K. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2019; 54:1079-1088. [PMID: 30863870 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-019-01679-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Loneliness may have different cultural meanings in different countries. This may manifest as differing levels of Social Asymmetry-the discrepancy between loneliness and social isolation. Since loneliness is thought to be low in Sweden relative to more southerly countries, we hypothesised that more number of individuals would also fall into the "discordant robust" category of Social Asymmetry, i.e. that more individuals in Sweden would have lower loneliness levels relative to social isolation than in Ireland. We also explored the clinical relevance of Social Asymmetry in both countries, by examining its association with cognitive functioning. METHODS We derived Social Asymmetry metrics in two representative cohort studies: the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA) and the Swedish National Study on Aging and Care in Kungsholmen (SNAC-K). Data pertaining to a dementia-free sample of 4565 Irish participants and 3042 Swedish participants, all aged over 60 years, were analysed using a multilevel modelling approach, with country as a higher-order variable. RESULTS Contrary to the expected, more individuals in Ireland were "discordant robust" than in Sweden. We also found evidence for superior performance in global cognitive functioning among those in the "discordant robust" category relative to those in the discordant susceptible (i.e. those with higher levels of loneliness than social isolation) category, β = 0.61, p < .001, across both countries. CONCLUSIONS Irish older adults may be more robust to the impact of social isolation on loneliness than those in the Swedish cohort. Social Asymmetry was related to cognitive functioning in both countries, suggesting that Social Asymmetry is a clinically relevant construct.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanna E McHugh Power
- School of Business, National College of Ireland, IFSC, Mayor Street, Dublin 1, Ireland. .,UK CRC Centre of Excellence for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast, Grosvenor Road, Belfast, BT12 6BJ, UK.
| | - Linnea Sjöberg
- Aging Research Center, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Frank Kee
- UK CRC Centre of Excellence for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast, Grosvenor Road, Belfast, BT12 6BJ, UK
| | - Rose Ann Kenny
- School of Medical Gerontology and Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Brian Lawlor
- School of Medical Gerontology and Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Nejati V, Salehinejad MA, Shahidi N, Abedin A. Psychological intervention combined with direct electrical brain stimulation (PIN-CODES) for treating major depression: A pre-test, post-test, follow-up pilot study. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.npbr.2017.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
|
18
|
Courtin E, Knapp M. Social isolation, loneliness and health in old age: a scoping review. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2017; 25:799-812. [PMID: 26712585 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.12311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 663] [Impact Index Per Article: 94.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/21/2015] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
The health and well-being consequences of social isolation and loneliness in old age are increasingly being recognised. The purpose of this scoping review was to take stock of the available evidence and to highlight gaps and areas for future research. We searched nine databases for empirical papers investigating the impact of social isolation and/or loneliness on a range of health outcomes in old age. Our search, conducted between July and September 2013 yielded 11,736 articles, of which 128 items from 15 countries were included in the scoping review. Papers were reviewed, with a focus on the definitions and measurements of the two concepts, associations and causal mechanisms, differences across population groups and interventions. The evidence is largely US-focused, and loneliness is more researched than social isolation. A recent trend is the investigation of the comparative effects of social isolation and loneliness. Depression and cardiovascular health are the most often researched outcomes, followed by well-being. Almost all (but two) studies found a detrimental effect of isolation or loneliness on health. However, causal links and mechanisms are difficult to demonstrate, and further investigation is warranted. We found a paucity of research focusing on at-risk sub-groups and in the area of interventions. Future research should aim to better link the evidence on the risk factors for loneliness and social isolation and the evidence on their impact on health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Courtin
- London School of Economics and Political Science, Personal Social Services Research Unit, London, UK
| | - Martin Knapp
- London School of Economics and Political Science, Personal Social Services Research Unit, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Hodgetts S, Gallagher P, Stow D, Ferrier IN, O'Brien JT. The impact and measurement of social dysfunction in late-life depression: an evaluation of current methods with a focus on wearable technology. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2017; 32:247-255. [PMID: 27911019 DOI: 10.1002/gps.4632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2016] [Revised: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 10/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Depression is known to negatively impact social functioning, with patients commonly reporting difficulties maintaining social relationships. Moreover, a large body of evidence suggests poor social functioning is not only present in depression but that social functioning is an important factor in illness course and outcome. In addition, good social relationships can play a protective role against the onset of depressive symptoms, particularly in late-life depression. However, the majority of research in this area has employed self-report measures of social function. This approach is problematic, as due to their reliance on memory, such measures are prone to error from the neurocognitive impairments of depression, as well as mood-congruent biases. METHOD Narrative review based on searches of the Web of Science and PubMed database(s) from the start of the databases, until the end of 2015. RESULTS The present review provides an overview of the literature on social functioning in (late-life) depression and discusses the potential for new technologies to improve the measurement of social function in depressed older adults. In particular, the use of wearable technology to collect direct, objective measures of social activity, such as physical activity and speech, is considered. CONCLUSION In order to develop a greater understanding of social functioning in late-life depression, future research should include the development and validation of more direct, objective measures in conjunction with subjective self-report measures. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Hodgetts
- Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Peter Gallagher
- Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.,Newcastle University, Institute for Ageing, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Daniel Stow
- Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - I Nicol Ferrier
- Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - John T O'Brien
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Gariépy G, Honkaniemi H, Quesnel-Vallée A. Social support and protection from depression: systematic review of current findings in Western countries. Br J Psychiatry 2016; 209:284-293. [PMID: 27445355 DOI: 10.1192/bjp.bp.115.169094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 555] [Impact Index Per Article: 69.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2014] [Accepted: 02/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Numerous studies report an association between social support and protection from depression, but no systematic review or meta-analysis exists on this topic. AIMS To review systematically the characteristics of social support (types and source) associated with protection from depression across life periods (childhood and adolescence; adulthood; older age) and by study design (cross-sectional v cohort studies). METHOD A systematic literature search conducted in February 2015 yielded 100 eligible studies. Study quality was assessed using a critical appraisal checklist, followed by meta-analyses. RESULTS Sources of support varied across life periods, with parental support being most important among children and adolescents, whereas adults and older adults relied more on spouses, followed by family and then friends. Significant heterogeneity in social support measurement was noted. Effects were weaker in both magnitude and significance in cohort studies. CONCLUSIONS Knowledge gaps remain due to social support measurement heterogeneity and to evidence of reverse causality bias.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Geneviève Gariépy
- Geneviève Gariépy, PhD, Institute for Health and Social Policy, McGill University, Montreal, Canada; Helena Honkaniemi, BSc, International Research Infrastructure on Social Inequalities in Health, McGill University, Montreal, Canada; Amélie Quesnel-Vallée, MSc, PhD, International Research Infrastructure on Social Inequalities in Health, Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, and Department of Sociology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Helena Honkaniemi
- Geneviève Gariépy, PhD, Institute for Health and Social Policy, McGill University, Montreal, Canada; Helena Honkaniemi, BSc, International Research Infrastructure on Social Inequalities in Health, McGill University, Montreal, Canada; Amélie Quesnel-Vallée, MSc, PhD, International Research Infrastructure on Social Inequalities in Health, Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, and Department of Sociology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Amélie Quesnel-Vallée
- Geneviève Gariépy, PhD, Institute for Health and Social Policy, McGill University, Montreal, Canada; Helena Honkaniemi, BSc, International Research Infrastructure on Social Inequalities in Health, McGill University, Montreal, Canada; Amélie Quesnel-Vallée, MSc, PhD, International Research Infrastructure on Social Inequalities in Health, Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, and Department of Sociology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Beckman N, Waern M, Östling S, Sundh V, Skoog I. Determinants of sexual activity in four birth cohorts of Swedish 70-year-olds examined 1971-2001. J Sex Med 2013; 11:401-10. [PMID: 24251617 DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Knowledge about determinants of sexual activity in older adults in the general population is limited. Human senescence has been delayed by a decade, and people are reaching old age in better health. AIM The aim of this study was to investigate determinants of sexual activity in four birth cohorts of non-demented 70-year-olds examined in 1971-1977 and 1992-2001. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE The main outcome measure was sexual activity (defined as intercourse) during the past year. METHODS The study is based on cross-sectional data from four population samples of 70-year-olds from Gothenburg, Sweden (N = 1,407) systematically sampled from the Swedish population register. RESULTS In the time periods 1971-1972 and 2000-2001, sexual activity among men increased from 47% to 66%, and in women from 12% to 34%. Sexual activity was related to positive attitude toward sexuality, sexual debut before age 20, having a very happy relationship, having a physically and mentally healthy partner, self-reported good global health, interviewer-rated good mental health, being married/cohabiting, satisfaction with sleep, and drinking alcohol more than three times a week. Having an older partner, diabetes mellitus, coronary heart disease, higher physical health-sum score, and depression were related to less sexual activity. Interaction effects for birth cohort, with stronger positive associations in 1971-1972, were found for positive attitude toward sexuality, strong desire at age 20-30, premarital sexuality, having a younger partner, self-reported good global health, interviewer-rated good global mental health, overweight, and satisfaction with sleep. Having an older partner and depression showed stronger negative associations in the 1970s. Physical health-sum score showed a stronger negative association in 1992-2001. CONCLUSIONS We found that determinants of sexual activity in older people are numerous and varied, and change over time. It is thus important that health professionals and others take a holistic approach when dealing with sexual problems in older adults. Sexual aging should be part of health care and medical education. Clinicians should be trained to ask older patients about sexual concerns.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nils Beckman
- Neuropsychiatric Epidemiology Unit, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy at Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|