Researchers Warn Loneliness Top Cause of Depression in Older Adults

(Newswire.net — September 23, 2022) Orlando, FL — Scientists have been increasingly investigating the various aspects of depression, which is a prevalent and serious condition. Some studies have highlighted the contributing factors of this disease.

In a study, which was spearheaded by UCL researchers, it has been found loneliness is responsible for 18 percent of depression cases among individuals over 50 in England. 

The findings of this research were published in The Lancet Psychiatry. 

This research suggests that nearly one in five cases of depression among older adults could be prevented by warding off loneliness.  Further, the subjective experiences of loneliness have been found to contribute to depression for up to 12 years later. 

“We found that whether people considered themselves to be lonely was a bigger risk factor for depression than how many social contacts and support they had. The findings suggest that it’s not just spending time with other people that matters, but having meaningful relationships and companionship,” said Senior author Dr. Gemma Lewis (UCL Psychiatry).

Scientists reviewed data from 4,211 participants of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, aged 52 and over. The subjects answered questions at regular intervals in 12 years about their experiences of loneliness, social engagement, and social support, as well as their symptoms of depression.

In measuring loneliness, the subjects were asked three questions about feeling left out, lacking companionship, and feeling isolated. Their answers were combined into a loneliness score on a seven-point scale.

It has been found that depressive symptoms increased over time among those with greater loneliness, suggesting that it was triggering future depression. 

“Our study has important public health implications, as it suggests that community-based approaches designed to reduce loneliness could reduce depression rates. Building relationships, meaningful connections, and a sense of belongingness may be more important than just increasing how much time people spend with others,” Dr. Lewis added.

More and more studies are still being carried out to look into the potentially helpful remedies for depression. 

It is worth mentioning that in some studies, it has been found the use of certain nutrients like B vitamins has been found beneficial. 

Years of research have demonstrated that the use of these nutrients could produce remarkable health benefits. They have even been found to work wonders in delivering anti-depressive benefits.

To benefit from their use, it is wise to take into account formulas like Divine Bounty B Vitamin Complex.

It contains Choline, Pantothenic acid, Biotin, Vitamin B12, Folic Acid, Niacin, Riboflavin, Thiamin, and vitamin B6.

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