The Relationship Between Social Isolation and Mortality Among Adults Aged 50 and Older in a 12-year Follow-Up Analysis in Mexico

Abstract

Social relationships have a complex nature shaped mainly by two dimensions: structure and function. Previous research raised the importance of considering both features simultaneously given that they may operate differently. However, research on social relationships and mortality mainly refers to European and U.S. populations. This study examines structural and functional features of social relationships to understand social isolation among adults aged 50 and older in Mexico. In addition, we analyze that association with mortality, using panel data from a 12-year follow-up from the Mexican Health and Aging Study (2003–2015). Results reveal that structural and functional features of social relationships are intertwined, and social isolation was shaped by two aspects that we label lack of socialization and being alone and feeling lonely. After controlling for a series of sociodemographic and health variables, Cox proportional hazard regression models indicate that both aspects significantly increase mortality among older adults in Mexico.