The Role of Social Engagement in Older Adults' Health

Abstract

The purpose of the current study was to explore the association between social engagement and the health status, cognition, and perceived well-being of older adults using data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study. Descriptive statistics, clustering, and regression modeling were performed to analyze the data. We used the regression model to identify statistically significant relationships between the representative variables and the extent to which participants participated in social activities. The most representative variable for each of the three clusters was selected and fitted to the regression model, which consists of (1) acute health problems and events, (2) cognitive and communication barriers, and (3) chronic conditions contributing to long-term health status. A regression model found that two factors—cognitive and communication barriers and chronic conditions contributing to long-term health status—were statistically significant in determining social engagement in older adults. Health care providers should consider various factors in planning and implementing social programs that can positively engage older adults. [ Research in Gerontological Nursing, 15 (3), 152–160.]