THE SILENT BURDEN: INVESTIGATING LONELINESS, MENTAL WELL-BEING, AND COGNITIVE HEALTH IN MIDDLE-AGED AND OLDER INDIAN POPULATIONS
Abstract
Loneliness, a subjective and distressing experience arising from a perceived deficit in social relationships, is increasingly recognized as a significant public health concern globally. This article explores the multifaceted impact of loneliness on mental health and cognitive function, with a particular focus on middle-aged and older adults within the diverse socio-cultural context of India. Drawing upon a comprehensive review of existing literature, including studies from India, this paper discusses the prevalence, determinants, and profound consequences of loneliness on psychological well-being (e.g., depression, anxiety) and cognitive faculties (e.g., memory, executive function, risk of dementia). While social connections are vital across the lifespan, their importance intensifies with age, particularly in societies undergoing rapid demographic and social transitions. This review synthesizes current understanding, highlights the unique challenges and protective factors prevalent in India, and outlines a hypothetical methodological framework for a study to empirically investigate these associations. The aim is to underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions to mitigate loneliness and its adverse health outcomes in this vulnerable demographic.
Keywords
loneliness, mental well-being, cognitive healthHow to Cite
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