Loneliness in older adults living alone in Western Europe [in Czech]

Abstract

Nowadays, many older adults are living in one-person households. This is positive in guaranteeing autonomy, but negative for social isolation and loneliness. Central research question: which factors enable older adults living alone to alleviate loneliness? Data come from the Generations and Gender Surveys. Women and men aged 60 years and over were selected from 5 countries. Results showed that more than 50% in each country is moderately or severely lonely. Support provided to (grand)children and the availability of confidants are important elements of an overall package of loneliness- alleviating interactions for older adults. Keywords: older adults; family; intergenerational support; living alone; loneliness