Longitudinal association of social isolation and loneliness with physical function among in-patients living with schizophrenia.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Patients living with schizophrenia often experience low physical function, which is associated with negative health outcomes. Therefore, investigating the risk factors for physical function is crucial in this population. This study examined the longitudinal association of social isolation and loneliness with physical function among inpatients living with schizophrenia. Physical function was assessed using measures of activities daily living (ADL), instrumental activities daily living (IADL) and the combination scores of ADL/IADL. Social isolation was indexed with five types of social connection and loneliness was measured using UCLA Loneliness Scale. Social isolation was not associated with the measures of physical function over 2 years. Loneliness exhibited an association with IADL and ADL/IADL at follow-up, after adjustment for baseline levels of the outcomes. These associations remained when both social isolation and loneliness were simultaneously entered into the model. Loneliness, rather than social isolation, was associated with increased physical function impairment over 2 years among inpatients living with schizophrenia. Healthcare professionals should consider loneliness as a potential risk factor for impaired physical function. It would be beneficial to assess patients for loneliness and implement interventions to reduce feelings of loneliness.