Exploring Loneliness among Geriatric Patients in Critical Care Areas of a Tertiary Care Hospital in Islamabad

Abstract

Background: Loneliness is prevalent among the elderly population. This, in turn, is a significant risk factor for various physical and psychosocial health ailments. Chronic loneliness emerges as a predisposing factor for suicidality, exacerbating cognitive decline and diminishing the overall quality of life. This study investigates loneliness among geriatric patients in critical care at a tertiary hospital in Islamabad, aiming to identify contributing factors and support interventions for improved emotional well-being. Methods: The study applied a cross-sectional quantitative research design that used a convenient non-probability sampling technique. The University of California, Los Angeles Loneliness Scale Version 3 (UCLA-LS V3), a 20-item questionnaire developed by Russell, was used to measure the loneliness and social isolation of geriatric patients. The sample included 100 geriatric patients aged above 65 years with acute clinical loneliness and chronic illnesses and those admitted. The study excluded patients under 65 years of age, unconscious, or on mechanical ventilation. The collected data was analyzed through SPSS version 27, and outcomes were presented in graphs and tables. Results: This study assessed loneliness in 100 geriatric patients, with 63% male and 37% female participants, and a mean age of 75.83 years. The average UCLA Loneliness Scale score was 33.06, indicating moderate loneliness. Gender did not significantly affect loneliness (t = 0.225, p = 0.22), and there was a weak, non-significant correlation between age and loneliness (r = 0.14, p = 0.17). Most participants (65%) experienced moderate loneliness, with males reporting higher levels of severe loneliness. The primary factors contributing to loneliness were perceived lack of support (22%) and social exclusion (12%). Conclusion: The study concludes that there is a significant prevalence of loneliness among geriatric patients, with a majority experiencing moderate loneliness. Gender and age did not have a significant impact on loneliness levels, suggesting that other factors, particularly a perceived lack of support and social exclusion, play a more substantial role. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions that address the multifactorial nature of loneliness, emphasizing the importance of enhancing social support and emotional connections to improve the well-being of geriatric patients.