The role of close support and community participation in unwanted loneliness among older adults
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.67799/prolepsis.2026.13.1.05Keywords:
unwanted loneliness, older people, social support, community involvement, ageingAbstract
Background: Unwanted loneliness among older people is a public health issue arising from the discrepancy between desired and available relationships. This study analyses how sociodemographic factors, support from close others and community participation explain loneliness among older people in a village in Salamanca. Method: An observational, cross-sectional and analytical study was conducted with 107 participants (aged 65–95). Subjective loneliness was assessed using the abbreviated UCLA Scale, whilst sociodemographic and relational variables were assessed using an ad hoc questionnaire. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis and logistic regression. Results: Older age, low income, widowhood and functional dependence were significantly associated with greater loneliness. Multivariate analysis revealed that close support (contact with family members and significant others) drastically reduces the likelihood of experiencing loneliness. Community participation did not show an independent protective effect, whilst active socialisation was positively associated with loneliness. Conclusion: Close emotional support is the main protective factor against unwanted loneliness. Interventions should focus on strengthening meaningful emotional bonds and trusting relationships, rather than simply increasing the range of social activities on offer.
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