Loneliness and Health-Related Quality of Life Among Medicaid Beneficiaries Ages 18 Years and Older

Abstract

Abstract Loneliness has adverse health effects across all ages. While several social determinants of health are well-characterized among Medicaid-enrolled adults, loneliness and social connection needs are routinely left out. This study assessed the prevalence of loneliness, and association of loneliness with health-related quality of life, among Medicaid-enrolled adults. Medicaid beneficiaries (n=2,054) responded to a companion care program enrollment survey (UCLA 3-Item Loneliness Scale; CDC Healthy Days Measure). Findings reveal loneliness was prevalent among all age groups (lonely: 35.3%; severely lonely: 11.2%), with an increase in loneliness observed with older ages (18-29 years old: 28.6%, 6.0%; 50-59 years old: 37.1%, 16.9%). Loneliness was associated with significantly increased unhealthy days. Findings suggest a need for heightened focus on and expansion of interventions addressing loneliness among adults receiving Medicaid benefits.