Loneliness (De Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale)
Approximately three-quarters of all respondents experience feelings of loneliness based on a loneliness scale comprised of two subscales measuring emotional and social loneliness. The percentage of respondents that are lonely increases by age category with nearly 82% of respondents 90+ classified as lonely.
Age Category
Lonely
Not lonely
50-59 60-69 70-79 80-89
70.8% 74.4% 73.6% 71.9% 81.8% 73.6%
29.2% 25.6% 26.4% 28.1% 18.2% 26.4%
90+
Total
None of the questions, and their associated responses, in this survey can be evaluated in isolation. Data from questions earlier in the survey point to resiliency in many respects; they include transportation, access to technology, access to health insurance, interest in activities, and overall good health. Pointers to the contrary also exist; they include inability to maintain home and/or yard, lack of access to healthcare, fear of falling, and trouble completing activities of daily living. Perhaps the most troubling finding from this survey is the high rate of feelings of loneliness reported by every age cohort. Social isolation and loneliness have been linked to higher risks of several physical and mental conditions. Isolation, and associated loneliness, can result from the death of a partner or spouse, loss of mobility, separation from (or reduced time with) friends or family, lack of transportation, and death of a pet. PCOA, partners, and local government can address these issues and taking services where people reside, again, seems to be an area to seriously explore.
Advanced Care Planning
Approximately two-thirds of all respondents indicated completing at least one type of advanced directive ([AD]; i.e., healthcare power of attorney, DNR order, or living will), with older age groups indicating having done so in greater numbers. While about half of respondents in their 60s indicated yes, 76% of respondents in their 80s have done so. The two most common advanced directives completed by respondents across all age groups are living wills and medical healthcare power of attorney followed pre- hospital directives or “do not resuscitate” orders.
50-59
60-69
70-79
80-89
90+
Total
Completed AD(s) No
58.8% 41.2%
48.2% 51.8%
30.7% 69.3%
24.0% 76.0%
17.0% 83.0%
36.7% 63.3%
Yes
Region II: PCOA
Area Plan 2024-2027
Page 110 of 113
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