The Prevalence of Loneliness Among U.S. Chinese Older Adults

Abstract

Objective: Loneliness is an important indicator of well-being. However, we have limited understanding of loneliness in minority aging populations. This study aims to identify the prevalence of loneliness among U.S. Chinese older adults. Method: Data were drawn from the PINE study, a population-based study of 3,159 U.S. Chinese older adults in the Greater Chicago area. Results: Our findings indicated that the prevalence of loneliness was 26.2%. Older adults with older age, female gender, and living alone reported higher prevalence of loneliness. Older adults with worsened health status, poorer quality of life, and negative health changes over the past year were also more likely to experience loneliness. Discussion: Loneliness is common among U.S. Chinese older adults in the Greater Chicago area. Future longitudinal studies are needed to improve the understanding of risk factors and outcomes associated with loneliness in Chinese older adults.