Loneliness and life satisfaction in institutionalized older adults

Abstract

Objective: To examine, within a group of older adults, the relationship between the frequency of visits received, the length of stay in the institution, and the levels of loneliness and life satisfaction.

Material  and  Methods: A quantitative approach was adopted, employing a correlational study with a cross-sectional design. A non-probabilistic sampling method was used to study 25 elderly residents of a care facility in Carmona (Seville, Span). Data collection included interviews, review of social records, the Life Satisfaction Scale, and a version of the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Loneliness Scale.

Results: Findings indicated moderate levels of both loneliness and life satisfaction. Loneliness was inversely correlated with the duration of institutionalization. No significant relationship was found between the number of visits received and perceived loneliness; however, a positive association was observed between the frequency of maintained contacts and the level of life satisfaction.

Conclusion: The study concluded that family support did not show a clear influence on levels of loneliness or life satisfaction. These results underscore the need for further research on this topic and the importance of considering other determinants of well-being, such as relationships with healthcare staff and interactions with other residents.

Keywords: Life satisfaction; Loneliness; Institutionalization; Social support.