THE CLOSURE OF RURAL CO-HOUSING AND CHANGES IN LONELINESS IN OLDER WOMEN LIVING ALONE
2024
Impact of Senior Cohousing on Loneliness in Older Women
Sample size: 160
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Park Sojung, Park Soobin, Lee Hyunjoo
Primary Institution: Washington University in St. Louis
Hypothesis
The closure of senior cohousing during the pandemic affects loneliness in older women living alone.
Conclusion
Senior cohousing helps reduce loneliness by fostering community connections among residents.
Supporting Evidence
- Prolonged social restrictions during the pandemic increased loneliness among those living alone.
- Congregate senior housing can help address social isolation challenges.
- Senior cohousing serves as a community hub for gathering and sharing.
- Community service is critical in protecting against depressive symptoms.
Takeaway
Living in a community with other seniors can help older women feel less lonely, especially during tough times like a pandemic.
Methodology
Mixed-method approach analyzing survey data and thematic analysis of interviews.
Limitations
Residents may not be empowered to self-organize for online learning.
Participant Demographics
Older women living alone in rural areas of Korea.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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