Predictors of loneliness and social isolation among unpaid caregivers of community-dwelling homebound and non-homebound older adults in the United States.

OBJECTIVES

This study examined the prevalence and predictors of loneliness and social isolation among caregivers of community-dwelling homebound and non-homebound older adults.

METHODS

We used the 2022 National Health and Aging Trends Study and National Study of Caregiving to estimate the prevalence of loneliness and social isolation among caregivers of older adult Medicare beneficiaries. We used logistic regression models to identify factors associated with the odds of loneliness and social isolation, adjusting for relevant caregiver and care recipient characteristics and stratified by care recipient homebound status.

RESULTS

Almost one quarter (24%) of caregivers were socially isolated and 29% experienced loneliness. Younger age was associated with both outcomes. Caring for a homebound older adult (23% of caregivers) was associated with poorer self-reported health but was not significantly associated with either caregiver social isolation or loneliness.

CONCLUSION

Multivariate analysis revealed distinct and overlapping predictors of loneliness and social isolation among US caregivers to Medicare beneficiaries. These findings can inform future efforts to identify at-risk caregivers and provide tailored support, with specific implications for caregivers of homebound older adults.