Changes in and factors related to loneliness in older men. The Zutphen Elderly Study

Aim: to investigate (i) whether loneliness increases in old age, and if so, whether it relates to ageing itself, to time trends or to cohort effects a nd (ii) the relationship between changes in institutionalization, partner s tatus and health and loneliness. Methods: 939 men born between 1900 and 1920 completed the De Jong-Gierveld Loneliness Scale, and answered questions about their partner status, health and institutionalization in 1985, 1990 and 1995. Results: for the oldest group (born between 1900 and 1910) loneliness score s increased, but not for the younger groups. The increase in loneliness was attributable to ageing. No birth cohort or time effects were found. Loneli ness was related to changes in institutionalization, partner status and sub jective health but not to Limitations in activities of daily living or cogn itive function. Conclusions: the increased loneliness experienced by very old men is influe nced by loss of a partner, moving into a care home or not feeling healthy.