A systematic review on the global prevalence and associated factors of isolation in older adults

Abstract

In today's world, isolation among older folks is a serious health risk. Despite being a phenomenon that has the potential to greatly affect people's quality of life and well-being, the problem has not gotten much attention up to this point. The purpose of this meta-analysis and systematic review is to compile the research on the prevalence of isolation and the factors that influence it. This research is a meta-analysis and systematic review. From 2014 to 2024, a thorough literature search was carried out using Scopus, PubMed, EMBASE, and Google Scholar. This review includes 113 studies in total. According to the meta-analysis, 27.6% of this population experienced isolation. With a prevalence rate of 30.5%, North America has the highest prevalence of isolation among older persons; the highest prevalences were among older women (30.2%) and institutionalized older adults (50.3%). According to the research's overall findings, loneliness affects about one in four elderly individuals worldwide, which is a significant statistic. Given the correlation between isolation and a number of clinical, social, and health factors, such as depression, suicidal thoughts, and death, as well as the projected increase in the elderly population, mental health professionals and legislators need to create and execute programs that reduce isolation in the elderly.