Drivers of Social Withdrawal in Individuals with Alzheimer’s: An Analysis of Online Personal Narratives
2024

Drivers of Social Withdrawal in Individuals with Alzheimer’s

Sample size: 8 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Hemmy Laura, Wong Yun Leng, Conway Mike, Lozoya Daniel Cabrera, Lim Kelvin, Mikal Jude

Primary Institution: University of Minnesota

Hypothesis

What are the catalysts, motivations, and consequences of increased social isolation among individuals with Alzheimer's Disease?

Conclusion

The study identifies key themes related to social withdrawal in individuals with Alzheimer's, highlighting the emotional, cognitive, and sensory factors involved.

Supporting Evidence

  • Social isolation is linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer's Disease and its progression.
  • Cognitive and functional impairments can lead to social withdrawal in individuals with Alzheimer's.
  • The study identifies five key themes related to social withdrawal among individuals with Alzheimer's.

Takeaway

People with Alzheimer's often feel lonely and withdraw from social activities, and this study looks at why that happens.

Methodology

The study used a grounded theory approach to analyze personal narratives from publicly available blogs of individuals living with early onset Alzheimer's.

Potential Biases

Potential bias in the narratives due to self-selection of participants sharing their experiences online.

Limitations

The study is based on a small sample size of personal narratives, which may not represent all individuals with Alzheimer's.

Participant Demographics

Individuals living with early onset Alzheimer's Disease.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.2536

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication