Gender Differences in the Associations Between Forms of Social Engagements and Loneliness in a Sample of Nigerian Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Abstract

Little is known about the forms of social engagements that specifically influence loneliness in older men and women subsamples. Accordingly, we examined the gender differences in the associations between forms of social engagement and loneliness among 406 Nigerian older adults (257 females) with mean age 76.69 ± 8.27 years. Binary logistic regressions were used in testing assumptions. Results showed that not all forms of social engagements predicted lower loneliness risks in men and women. After adjusting for relevant covariates, visitation to children and participation in traditional ceremonies predicted lower risks of loneliness in women. However, attendance at traditional ceremonies predicted high risk of loneliness in men. These results suggest that gender differences should be considered when implementing programs aimed at lowering loneliness risks among older adults through social engagements. Future research may further investigate gender differences in the association between social engagements and loneliness in other societies and cultures.