Racial/Ethnic Differences in Loneliness Among Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Taylor Harry, Roy Arka, Tsuchiya Kazumi, Nguyen Ann, Chen Yu-Chih, Cudjoe Thomas, Qin Weidi
Primary Institution: University of Toronto
Hypothesis
Does income and education mediate racial/ethnic differences in loneliness among older adults?
Conclusion
Income and education significantly mediate the differences in loneliness between racial/ethnic groups among older adults.
Supporting Evidence
- White and Hispanic/Latinx older adults had comparable levels of loneliness.
- Black older adults had higher loneliness scores.
- Hispanic/Latinx older adults had the lowest levels of loneliness after adjustment.
- Income as a mediator accounted for greater racial/ethnic differences in loneliness compared to education.
Takeaway
This study found that older adults from different racial backgrounds feel lonely in different ways, and that having more money and education can help reduce that loneliness.
Methodology
Data was analyzed from the Health and Retirement Study using multivariable linear regression models and the KHB mediation method.
Participant Demographics
Older adults in the United States categorized by race/ethnicity: White, Black, and Hispanic/Latino.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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