Longitudinal relationship between living alone and health among Chinese older adults: the mediating role of activity engagement

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study examined the longitudinal relationships between living arrangements and health and the mediation effect of social interaction and leisure activity among community-residing older adults in China. Data were retrieved from three waves of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS 2011–2015). The sample included 5,927 respondents aged 60 or older at baseline. Multilevel generalised structural equation modelling (GSEM) was used. Results showed that living alone was associated with better self-rated health over time (B = .06, SE = .03, p < .05) relative to living with others. Social interaction and leisure activity significantly mediated the effect of living alone, accounting for nine per cent of the total effect on self-rated health. Living alone has direct and indirect effects on self-rated health through activity engagement. Practice and policy efforts are needed to help older adults, especially those living alone, remain socially engaged in a supportive environment.