Chronic musculoskeletal pain is a prevalent condition among older adults that can disrupt daily activities. Psychosocial factors, including loneliness and social isolation, may be associated with pain interference. This study explores the relationships between loneliness, social isolation, and pain interference in older adults with chronic musculoskeletal pain. A total of 65 older adults who visited a university hospital participated in the study. Pain interference was assessed using the Brief Pain Inventory questionnaire, loneliness was measured with the UCLA Loneliness Scale, and social isolation was evaluated using the Perceived Social Isolation questionnaire. Spearman’s rank correlation analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between loneliness and pain interference (r = 0.320, p = 0.009) and between loneliness and social isolation (r = 0.353, p = 0.004). However, social isolation was not significantly correlated with pain interference (r = 0.142, p = 0.260). In detail, further analysis indicated that loneliness was specifically associated with greater pain interference in walking ability (r = 0.363, p = 0.003) and enjoyment of life (r = 0.357, p = 0.004). These findings suggest that loneliness may be related to both social isolation and certain aspects of pain interference. This study suggests the possibility that interventions targeting loneliness may influence pain-related outcomes in older adults with chronic musculoskeletal pain. Further research is needed to explore these relationships and potential intervention strategies.

Authors:
Siwaluk Srikrajang, Prince of Songkla University, Thailand
Narucha Komolsuradej, Prince of Songkla University, Thailand
Darinya Jaipang, Prince of Songkhla University, Thailand
Khwanchira Chenchirachot, Prince of Songkhla University, Thailand
Jirawat Saelim, Prince of Songkhla University, Thailand
Natthinee Wong-ngam, Prince of Songkhla University, Thailand
Weeranan Yaemrattanakul, Prince of Songkhla University, Thailand
Napakkawat Buathong, Prince of Songkhla University, Thailand

About the Presenter(s)
Siwaluk Srikrajang, PT, M.Sc., is a lecturer in the Department of Physical Therapy at Prince of Songkhla University, Thailand. Her research focuses on aging musculoskeletal problems and pain management strategies.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/siwaluk-srikrajang-60669423a/

See this presentation on the full schedule – Sunday Schedule

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