?
Взаимосвязь одиночества и образа жизни в пожилом возрасте
The phenomenon of solitude can be evaluated and examined through the lens of diverse theoretical approaches. This paper analyses ‘subjective’ loneliness, defined as the subjective experience of loneliness (UCLA scale), and ‘objective’ social isolation (living alone and infrequent personal contact). Conversely, the perception of either loneliness or solitude may determine the predisposition to reduce personal contacts or increase subjective experiences. As individuals age, they experience a gradual transition to a new life course stage, characterised by a shift in roles, a reduction in social contacts and changes in lifestyle. The transition increases the risk of loneliness and underscores the importance of studying this population group. The objective of this study is to examine the relationship between loneliness and social isolation and the lifestyle of the elderly population in Russia, as well as to identify the key predictors of loneliness and social isolation in this age group. To achieve this objective, an online survey was conducted on a representative sample of Russian citizens aged 20-74 years old with access to the Internet. The term “old age” as used in this paper refer to the population aged 50-74 years old. In order to assess the relationship between loneliness and lifestyle, binary logistic regressions were constructed on a separate basis for social isolation and loneliness. The term “lifestyle” is used in this paper to refer to a set of leisure activities (physical, social, recreational, educational, and community activities) and psychological constructs that may influence the psychoemotional state of the elderly, their preferences and attitudes towards loneliness (Anxiety and Depression Scale PHQ-4, Differential Questionnaire of Loneliness Experience DQLE-3k). The analysis shows that subjective loneliness (feeling of loneliness), as opposed to social isolation, is associated with a greater need for communication and a lower predisposition to a positive perception of solitude. Regular participation in volunteer work or helping loved ones contributes to reducing the feeling of loneliness, as does participation in recreational activities. The results can be used to develop of targeted policies in the interests of the older generation and to promote the further development of active ageing programmes in Russia.