Determinantes de la soledad no deseada en los adultos mayores: un análisis de factores psicológicos y sociodemográficos

Background and objective

Loneliness in old age is associated with a decline in quality of life, so it is important to identify the risk factors for loneliness. This study examines the predictors of loneliness in individuals over 65 years of age, focusing on sociodemographic variables (age, marital status, and educational level) and psychological factors (depressive symptoms and hopelessness).

Methods

An analysis was conducted with 246 older adults over 65 years who lived independently. Variables were assessed using the following instruments: the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) for depression, the Beck Hopelessness Scale (BHS) for hopelessness, and the UCLA Loneliness Scale for loneliness. Binary logistic regression was applied to evaluate the relationship between these variables, as well as age, marital status, and educational level, and the likelihood of experiencing loneliness.

Results

The results indicate that age and high scores on depression (CES-D) and negative expectations (BHS) significantly increase the likelihood of experiencing loneliness. A higher educational level was found to be a protective factor, reducing the likelihood of loneliness. However, neither marital status nor loss of motivation on the BHS were significant predictors.

Conclusions

The study confirms that both sociodemographic and psychological factors influence the perception of loneliness in old age. Promoting social and educational activities could reduce the risk of loneliness, and addressing depressive symptoms and negative thoughts may improve well-being in older adults.