Predictors of Social Isolation and Loneliness among Elderly Residing in a Slum in Eastern India

Abstract

Background: Geriatric population in India is expected to reach about 20% of total population by 2050.4,5 This
brings along newer challenges of not only physical morbidities, but psychosocial morbidities too for this group
of population. Social withdrawal and isolation, loneliness are two of those mental morbidities of concern. Social
isolation is an objective state defined as the absence of contact with other people and integration with other
members of society.6 In contrast, loneliness is a subjective feeling caused by ‘being without some definite needed
relationship or set of relationships’7. Social isolation & loneliness both have impact on physical and mental well
being of a person.10-16 So, present study was conducted with the objective of assessing the extent of loneliness and
social isolation among elderly in an urban community, and determining the covariates of the same.
Methods: This cross-sectional community-based study was undertaken from December 2019 to February 2020
among 246 elderly men and women, 60 years & above residing in a slum in Chetla Kolkata. They were interviewed
about their demographic, financial supports and social supports. Social Isolation was assessed with the help of
six item Lubben Social network scale-6.17,18 Loneliness was assessed with the help of the UCLA Loneliness Scale
version 3.19,20 Statistical Analysis: Descriptive and univariate analysis, multiple logistic regression was done to
find out factors associated with loneliness & social isolation.
Results: Social isolation and loneliness were present in 120 (48.78%) and 125 (50.81%) subjects respectively.
Multivariate logistic regression revealed that age>69 years. marital status other than married, inadequate income,
and those living alone were at increased risk of social isolation. Inadequate income and male sex were at greater
risk of loneliness.
Conclusion: Social isolation & loneliness are present in almost half of the elderly living in an urban slum of
Kolkata, which is alarming