Loneliness Among Older Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Role of Family and Community Social Capital

The book explores the relationship between social capital and loneliness among older adults in urban China during the COVID-19 outbreak and the mediation role of community-based cognitive social capital. It is relevant to academic researchers, students, policymakers, and social workers interested in social capital and mental well-being in later life, particularly the impacts of COVID-19.

Format: Hardback
Length: 124 pages
Publication date: 11 March 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This book delves into the intricate relationship between social capital and the experience of loneliness among older adults residing in urban China during the challenging period of the COVID-19 outbreak. Furthermore, it seeks to examine the mediating effect of community-based cognitive social capital on the association between community-based structural social capital and the well-being of older urban Chinese adults. With a focus on a wide range of stakeholders, including academic researchers, social work practitioners, policymakers, and individuals passionate about social capital and mental well-being in older adulthood, this book offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics that shape the lives of older individuals in urban contexts.

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about unprecedented challenges to the well-being of older adults worldwide. In urban China, the impact of the virus on older individuals has been particularly severe, with increased rates of loneliness, social isolation, and mental health issues. This book aims to investigate the relationship between social capital and loneliness among older adults living in urban China during the COVID-19 outbreak period.

Social capital refers to the networks, relationships, and trust within a community that can enhance social support, collective action, and social integration. It has been widely recognized as a crucial factor in promoting the well-being of older adults, particularly in times of crisis. The COVID-19 outbreak has disrupted traditional social networks and activities, leading to a decline in social capital among older adults.

Loneliness, on the other hand, is a complex emotional state characterized by a sense of emptiness, isolation, and lack of social connection. It has been linked to various negative health outcomes, including depression, anxiety, and increased risk of mortality. Older adults are particularly vulnerable to loneliness due to a variety of factors, including declining physical health, loss of loved ones, and social isolation.

The study aims to examine the following research questions:

RQ1: What is the relationship between social capital and loneliness among older adults living in urban China during the COVID-19 outbreak period?

RQ2: How does community-based cognitive social capital mediate the relationship between community-based structural social capital and loneliness among older urban Chinese adults?

To address these research questions, the book employs a mixed-methods approach. It includes a quantitative survey to collect data on social capital, loneliness, and other relevant variables from a sample of older adults living in urban China. The survey will be conducted online to ensure the safety and convenience of the participants during the pandemic.

In addition to the quantitative survey, the book also includes in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with older adults to gain a deeper understanding of their experiences and perspectives. These qualitative data will provide valuable insights into the nuances and complexities of the relationship between social capital and loneliness in the context of the COVID-19 outbreak.

The findings of the study will have important implications for social work practice, policy, and research. It will provide valuable insights into the strategies that can be used to promote social capital and reduce loneliness among older adults during times of crisis. It will also contribute to the growing body of knowledge on the impacts of COVID-19 on the well-being of older adults and the role of social capital in mitigating these impacts.

In conclusion, this book aims to investigate the relationship between social capital and loneliness among older adults living in urban China during the COVID-19 outbreak period. It will also test the mediation role of community-based cognitive social capital on the relationship between community-based structural social capital and loneliness. The findings of the study will have significant implications for social work practice, policy, and research, and will contribute to the understanding of the challenges faced by older adults in urban contexts during times of crisis.

Weight: 383g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811906107
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022