Heterogeneous associations between community social capital and loneliness: a cross-sectional study in 2019

Abstract

Background:

Loneliness is prevalent among older adults and is linked to physical and mental health problems. Community social capital has been suggested to mitigate its impact, but its heterogeneity across socioeconomic groups was not explored

Method:

We analysed cross-sectional data from the 2019 Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study (JAGES) with 24,206 participants aged 65 years or older. Loneliness was measured using UCLA’s 3-item scale, and community social capital was assessed by civic participation, social cohesion, and reciprocity. Modified Poisson regression models were used, adjusting for sociodemographic factors and individual responses to the questions on social capital. Interaction effects of gender, education, and income were examined.

Results:

Higher levels of community social cohesion (PR = 0.84, 95% CI: 0.75-0.94) and community reciprocity (PR = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.51-0.80) were inversely associated with loneliness. The relationship between community civic participation and loneliness varied by educational attainment. Interaction analysis indicated that individuals with higher education levels (≥ 13 years) who engaged in community civic participation had a lower prevalence of loneliness (PR = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.57–0.95) compared to those with lower education levels. No clear interactions were observed for gender or income.

Conclusions:

Community social capital, particularly social cohesion and reciprocity, was associated with lower levels of loneliness among older adults. The effect of civic participation differed by education, showing a stronger negative association among individuals with higher education levels (≥ 13 years). Tailored interventions accounting for educational backgrounds are needed while promoting social capital universally.