Definition, Determinants, and Outcomes of Social Connectedness for Older Adults: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Social connectedness is critical to older adults' well-being, but is defined inconsistently and its determinants and outcomes have not been comprehensively described. The current scoping review mapped the definitions, determinants, and outcomes of social connectedness for older adults. By identifying the conceptual features described in most articles, social connectedness was defined as: the opposite of loneliness, a subjective evaluation of the extent to which one has meaningful, close, and constructive relationships with others (i.e., individuals, groups, and society). Social connectedness is operationalized into: (a) caring about others and feeling cared about by others, and (b) feeling of belonging to a group or community. One's social network and life satisfaction were the most frequently proposed determinant and outcome, respectively. This review resulted in a clear definition of social connectedness and comprehensive description of its possible determinants and outcomes. This clarity will support the development of interventions to enhance social connectedness for older adults. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 43(7), 43-52.].