A Study of Social Isolation, Multimorbidity and Multiple Role Demands Among Middle-Age Adults Based on the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging

Abstract

Given the increasing complexity and fluidity of parenting, caregiving, and paid work patterns, in tandem with an increased risk of multimorbidity in mid-life, this study examines the relationship between these three concurrent roles and social isolation among middle-aged persons across multimorbidity statuses. Drawing upon life course theory, we applied linear mixed models to analyze 29,847 middle-aged participants from two waves of the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging. Findings reveal that participants experience greater social isolation over time, albeit the difference is extremely small. Among participants without multimorbidity, holding multiple roles is associated with lower social isolation. For those with multimorbidity, being employed full-time and providing intensive care are associated with social isolation. The occurrence of multiple roles demonstrates unique associations with social isolation among those with and without multimorbidity over time. Future research should study multimorbidity as a salient contextual variable. Moreover, enhanced support is needed for multimorbid middle-aged individuals with different role demands.

Trends in the prevalence of social isolation among middle and older adults in China from 2011 to 2018: the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study

“…When controlling for various confounding factors, the prevalence of social isolation among people in poor health is 1.348-1.466 times higher than among people in good health. Previous studies have confirmed the significant relationship between social isolation and well-being [ 28 – 30 , 62 ], which is mutually reinforcing. The main explanatory power of the relationship lies with health being a consistent predictor in the literature.…”

“…Sleep problems [ 25 ] and internet use [ 26 , 27 ] also have an impact on social isolation. Poor self-rated health [ 28 ], a low capacity for activities of daily living [ 29 ] and multiple chronic diseases [ 30 ] have also been documented. In addition, family characteristics [ 31 ], living arrangements [ 32 ] and children [ 33 ] might be factors.…”

Health reform: criteria change for an upstream approach to address social determinants of health

“…Programs that provide transportation services is an ongoing theme to promote healthy aging. A longitudinal study saw an increase in the risk of multimorbidity in 29,847 middle-aged due to social isolation [26]. The impact regarding having access to transportation can create an additive effect across the complex multidimensional interworkings in health deterioration.…”

A Korean Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study Investigating Risk Factors, Prevalence, and Characteristics of Sarcopenia in Men in Early Old Age

“…This period typically coincides with the peak of their professional careers and their influential roles in society in their age group. They are often burdened with numerous responsibilities both at home and in their communities [32]. The pressing demands of their daily lives often lead them to deprioritize exercise routines, ultimately contributing to muscle loss as a consequence of insufficient physical activity.…”