The psychometric properties of the Lubben Social Network Scale (LSNS-6) and its associations with well-being indicators in Hong Kong older adults

OBJECTIVE: Social networks play a vital role in facilitating late-life health and well-being. The current research sought to examine the psychometric properties of the abbreviated Lubben Social Network Scale (LSNS-6) among community-dwelling Hong Kong Chinese older adults and to explore the association between social network and well-being indicators such as life satisfaction, functional social support, loneliness and anxiety. METHODS: We administered the LSNS-6 scale to 324 older adults (mean = 71.70, SD = 8.58, range: 58-95). We performed confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to confirm the construct validity. Cronbach's alpha was chosen for internal consistency estimation. Correlational analysis was performed between LSNS-6 scale and other measures to ascertain the convergent validity. RESULTS: The two-factor model of LSNS-6 indicated an adequate fit. The goodness-of-fit index values for the model were χ² /df = 2.61, CFI = 0.98, RSMEA = 0.07, SRMR = 0.05. The internal consistency of the scale was α = 0.75. It also demonstrated good construct validity in measuring the social network and acceptable convergent validity to other measures. CONCLUSIONS: The LSNS-6, according to current findings, can be a valid reference to the social network of Hong Kong older adults, enabling researchers and clinicians to investigate and develop further corresponding remedies for those in need.