Exploratory descriptive cross-sectional study on loneliness and participation in leisure activities among non-institutionalized older adults

Loneliness is described as a painful experience caused by the absence of social relationships or feelings of belonging. Furthermore, it is currently considered one of the greatest challenges in the lives of older adults. The purpose of this study is to determine the level of perceived loneliness by the 89 participants, who are students at the University of Extremadura for Older Adults. To this end, we conducted an exploratory descriptive cross-sectional study, using the ESTE II perceived loneliness questionnaire as a measurement tool. This scale allows us to assess the social support, use of technology, and social participation of these individuals. The results obtained have allowed us to observe that there are no significant differences between the different variables. However, a moderate association has been established between levels of perceived loneliness and factors such as widowhood, having a large number of children, or a lack of social or cultural leisure activities. In conclusion, it has been determined that the participants showed a low level of perceived loneliness.