Loneliness, Cognitive Functioning and Quality of Life in Older Adults

Loneliness and cognitive impairment is a serious concern among the older adults and is a significant factor influencing elderly quality of life. The current study aimed to examine the associations among loneliness, cognitive functioning and quality of life in Pakistani older adults. The study is cross sectional study with a non-probability purposive sample comprising of 149 Pakistani older adults of ages 60 years and above. Internationally standardized scales have been used to collect online data. Multiple linear regression results indicate that loneliness (β= -0.23, p<.001) and cognitive functioning (β= 0.32, p<.001) are significant predictors of the quality of life in older adults. Furthermore, older men scored higher on loneliness and cognitive impairment than older women and the overall quality of life was better in women participants as compared to men. There is need for social and health interventions to promote the quality of life of elderly population, especially in times of pandemic, with specific focus on reducing loneliness and cognitive impairment, Keywords: Loneliness, cognitive functioning, quality of life, older adults, gender difference