Lonely societies: low trust societies? Further explanations for national variations in loneliness among older Europeans

• DOI: 10.1007/s10433-021-00649-z
• Publication Date: 2021-09-16T10:03:34Z
• Authors: Gražina Rapolienė; Marja Aartsen
• Keywords: Marital status; European Social Survey; Disengagement theory; Social Isolation

Abstract Cross-national studies in Europe reveal sharp regional differences the prevalence of loneliness among older adults, with highest Eastern European countries. In this study, we investigate an alternative explanation for based on trust. Many countries were ruled by totalitarian regimes that undermined people’s trust other people and system, potentially leading to higher prevalence. Data are derived from sixth round Social Survey conducted 2012, 12,042 respondents, which 4827 live post-totalitarian 7215 Israel. We estimate a path model people, social engagement included as latent variables one dichotomous outcome (lonely or not). control age, gender, health limitations, marital status, income adequacy, education. The results is partly constructed social–cultural historical–political characteristics live. Eastern-European can be linked low level through disengagement. Considering role creation individuals feelings contributes understanding country variations opens new perspective research development policies aimed at reducing loneliness.