Association between loneliness and anxiety among older adults living in nursing homes
DOI: https://doi.org/10.56922/mhc.v5i5.4124
Anxiety Loneliness Older Adults
Abstract
Background: Older adults are a vulnerable population who experience various physical, psychological, and social changes. Loneliness and anxiety are common psychological problems among older adults, particularly those living in nursing homes. Limited social interaction and reduced family support may increase the risk of psychological distress.
Purpose: To determine the relationship between loneliness and anxiety levels among older adults living in nursing homes.
Method: A quantitative research design with a descriptive correlational approach. A total of 207 older adults were selected using purposive sampling based on predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were collected using the UCLA Loneliness Scale to assess loneliness and the Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (ZSAS) to assess anxiety. Data were analysed using the Spearman’s rho correlation test.
Results: The results showed a positive and significant relationship between loneliness and anxiety among older adults (r = 0.307, p = 0.001). The correlation coefficient indicated a weak positive relationship, suggesting that higher levels of loneliness were associated with higher levels of anxiety.
Conclusion: There was a weak but significant positive relationship between loneliness and anxiety among older adults living in nursing homes. Higher levels of loneliness were associated with higher levels of anxiety. Early detection and appropriate psychosocial interventions are needed to reduce loneliness and anxiety and promote psychological well-being among older adults.
Keywords: Anxiety; Loneliness; Older Adults.
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