OBJECTIVE: To describe the degree of loneliness among the visually impaired elderly and to make a comparison with a matched reference group of the normally sighted elderly. In addition, we examined self-management abilities (SMAs) as determinants of loneliness among the visually impaired elderly. METHOD: In a cross-sectional study, 173 visually impaired elderly persons completed telephone interviews. Loneliness and SMAs were assessed with the Loneliness Scale of De Jong Gierveld and the SMAS-30, respectively. RESULTS: The prevalence of loneliness among the visually impaired elderly was higher compared with the reference group (50% vs. 29%; p < .001). Multivariate hierarchical regression analysis showed that the SMA self-efficacy, partner status, and self-esteem were determinants of loneliness. Severity and duration of visual impairment had no effect on loneliness. DISCUSSION: The relationship between SMAs (i.e., self-efficacy) and loneliness is promising, as SMAs can be learned through training. Consequently, self-management training may reduce feelings of loneliness.
OBJECTIVE: To describe the degree of loneliness among the visually impaired elderly and to make a comparison with a matched reference group of the normally sighted elderly. In addition, we examined self-management abilities (SMAs) as determinants of loneliness among the visually impaired elderly. METHOD: In a cross-sectional study, 173 visually impaired elderly persons completed telephone interviews. Loneliness and SMAs were assessed with the Loneliness Scale of De Jong Gierveld and the SMAS-30, respectively. RESULTS: The prevalence of loneliness among the visually impaired elderly was higher compared with the reference group (50% vs. 29%; p < .001). Multivariate hierarchical regression analysis showed that the SMA self-efficacy, partner status, and self-esteem were determinants of loneliness. Severity and duration of visual impairment had no effect on loneliness. DISCUSSION: The relationship between SMAs (i.e., self-efficacy) and loneliness is promising, as SMAs can be learned through training. Consequently, self-management training may reduce feelings of loneliness.
Authors: Emiel O Hoogendijk; Dorly J H Deeg; Jan Poppelaars; Marleen van der Horst; Marjolein I Broese van Groenou; Hannie C Comijs; H Roeline W Pasman; Natasja M van Schoor; Bianca Suanet; Fleur Thomése; Theo G van Tilburg; Marjolein Visser; Martijn Huisman Journal: Eur J Epidemiol Date: 2016-08-20 Impact factor: 8.082