Meaningful connections matter for loneliness in older adults: An Associational Variable Analysis of factors contributing to loneliness

Abstract This study examined the Cacioppo and Hawkley (2009) theoretical model of loneliness in older adults while introducing social network strength as a key associational variable. Data from an Australian community-based sample of 193 adults aged 65–91 years was analysed using Associational Variable Analysis. The initial theory-derived path model linking hypervigilance, cognitive confirmation bias, behavioural confirmation processes, and negative displays, social interaction and affect accounted for 48% of the variance in loneliness in older adults. The introduction of familial and friendship social network strength as an associational variable increased explained variance to approximately 93% of the variance in loneliness. Social network variables accounted for the largest unique portions of variance in loneliness in the semi-partial regression. Stronger social networks were associated with lower loneliness in older adults indicating that meaningful relationships with family and friends matter for understanding loneliness in older adults.