Measuring Social Isolation Among Older Adults with Dementia
Author Information
Author(s): Pomeroy Mary Louise, Umoh Mfon, Qian Yiqing, Ornstein Katherine, Cudjoe Thomas
Primary Institution: Johns Hopkins University
Hypothesis
Research examining objective social isolation among persons living with dementia has been limited.
Conclusion
About 32.1% of persons living with dementia were found to be socially isolated, with higher rates among those not using proxy respondents.
Supporting Evidence
- 41.3% of interviews with persons living with dementia were completed using a proxy respondent.
- Social isolation was more prevalent among those who completed the interview without a proxy.
Takeaway
Many older adults with dementia feel lonely, and we found that more of them are isolated when they answer questions themselves rather than through someone else.
Methodology
Used data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study to assess social isolation among community-dwelling persons living with dementia.
Potential Biases
Potential bias from proxy responses affecting the accuracy of social isolation assessments.
Limitations
The study faced challenges with missing data and the use of proxy interviews.
Participant Demographics
Community-dwelling persons living with dementia.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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