Understanding loneliness and depression in spousal separation within long-term care facilities
Addressing the knowledge gap
As the world's senior population continues to grow, the demand for long-term care facilities is increasing. Spousal separation is a challenging reality that many older adults and their partners face when one or both spouses require long-term care admission due to differing care needs or limited bed availability. This separation can have profound effects on the mental health and well-being of both long-term care residents and their spouses.
The impact of loneliness and depression in long-term care facilities
Loneliness and depression are significant concerns for older adults who are separated from their spouses due to long-term care placement. Social relationships, particularly spousal relationships, play a crucial role in the mental health of older individuals. However, research into the effects of spousal separation on the experiences of loneliness and depression within long-term care settings remains limited.
Prevalence and consequences of loneliness and depression
Loneliness is a prevalent issue in long-term care facilities, contributing to negative physical and mental health outcomes for residents. Severe loneliness affects up to 42% of long-term care residents, a stark contrast to the 10% prevalence in older adults living in the community. Loneliness often goes hand in hand with feelings of depression and, when left unaddressed, can lead to severe health implications, including anxiety, cognitive decline, and even suicidal thoughts.
Depression, a global concern affecting 5.7% of individuals over 60, is another consequence of spousal separation. Any form of depression increases the risk of early death in older adults by 2 to 3 times.
Challenges amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic further intensified the challenges faced by separated spouses within long-term care facilities. While safety measures were essential to protect long-term care residents from the virus, these measures often overlooked the psychosocial and mental health aspects of their well-being. Limited visitation, cancelled activities, and restricted personal care services deprived residents of much-needed social interactions, amplifying their sense of loneliness and depression. Striking a balance between physical health and mental well-being remains a crucial aspect of long-term care.
Addressing the knowledge gap
A systematic review is underway, aiming to bridge the knowledge gap surrounding the experiences of loneliness and depression in spousal separation within long-term care facilities. The study will examine various contexts, including the types of separation, cognitive abilities of residents, and different long-term care settings. By exploring these aspects, the review seeks to offer insights into the unique challenges faced by involuntarily separated spouses and shed light on the complexities of spousal separation.
As the senior population continues to grow, the demand for long-term care services will rise. Consequently, there is an urgent need to prioritise the mental health and overall well-being of long-term care residents and their separated spouses. By understanding the experiences of spousal separation, loneliness, and depression, we can work towards improving the quality of life for those navigating the challenges of long-term care placement.
The protocol for the systematic review is available in the August 2023 issue of JBI Evidence Synthesis
Robertson, Madison A.; Petersen, Erika E.; Ross-White, Amanda; Egan, Rylan
JBI Evidence Synthesis 21(8):p 1672-1678, August 2023. | DOI: 10.11124/JBIES-22-00270