Loneliness and Associated Factors Among Senior Physicians in the U.S.

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to examine prevalence of loneliness among senior physicians and identify associations between high loneliness and other personal and social factors. Methods: This cross-sectional survey of physicians aged ≥65 was conducted between February 26 and March 12, 2024. Loneliness was measured using the 20-item UCLA Loneliness Scale. Information about demographics and personal, social, and health factors was collected. Results: Of the 10,090 participants the majority were male (74.0%), ages 65-72 (50.8%), white (81.3%), and heterosexual (93.3%). The mean loneliness score was 38.04. Nearly 1 in 5 (18.0%) experienced high loneliness, including 14.1% with moderately high loneliness and 3.9% with very high loneliness. Multivariable analysis, after controlling for social and personal factors, demonstrated that being divorced/separated (OR 2.78 [95% CI, 1.79-4.31]), widowed (OR 2.52 [95% CI, 1.60-3.97]), or single (OR 2.70 [95% CI, 1.66-4.40]) were associated with high loneliness. Participants with a chronic health condition (OR 1.26 [95% CI, 1.02-1.60]) or a chronic health condition and a disability (OR 2.18 [95% CI, 1.48-3.20]) had higher odds of high loneliness than those without either. Not having an annual wellness visit was associated with higher odds of high loneliness (OR 1.58 [95% CI, 1.21-2.06]), as was not spending time on hobbies (OR 5.45 [95% CI, 4.03-7.25]). Conclusions: Nearly 1 in 5 senior physicians experience loneliness, and high loneliness is associated with personal and social factors. Policymakers and organizations that employ, provide care for, or support senior-aged physicians should ensure policies and programs support the social and personal needs of this population.