Prevalence and predictors of loneliness and its association with health-seeking behaviors among the elderly population, Gujarat, A community-based cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence and predictors of loneliness and its associations with health behaviors among elderly adults in Gujarat, India. METHODOLOGY: This community-based cross-sectional study included 250 participants aged ≥60 years. Loneliness was measured using the UCLA Loneliness Scale. Associations with socio-demographic, health, and social factors were explored through regression models. Health behaviors were compared between lonely and non-lonely groups. RESULTS: The prevalence of moderate and severe loneliness was 24% (n = 60) and 16% (n = 40), respectively. 40% (n = 100) were found to be lonely. Widowhood (55/125, OR 3.67), living alone (75/125, OR 1.85), social isolation (90/125, OR 2.38), recent bereavement (68/125, OR 1.69), depression (85/125, OR 6.52), and disability (70/125, OR 6.35) were significant predictors of loneliness (P < 0.05). Lonely elders had poorer diet, exercise, sleep, increased smoking, screen time, reduced medical checkups, and social engagements versus non-lonely peers (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Loneliness was highly prevalent among 40% of elderly Indians and strongly linked to adverse health behaviors. Interventions promoting social connectedness, counseling, and peer support are recommended.