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The researchers of the Not Alone project, led by Esther Cabrera, director of the TecnoCampus Chair in Aging and Quality of Life, have published the first scientific article derived from this study in the journal BMC Geriatrics, an international reference publication in the field of aging, with an impact factor of 4.3.
The Not Alone project is funded by the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities within the framework of the call for R&D&I projects aimed at societal challenges.
With the title "Uncovering the impact of loneliness in aging populations: a comprehensive scoping review", the article presents a review of the scientific evidence on loneliness and social isolation in older people living in the community.
The work analyses more than fifty international studies published between 2013 and 2024, as well as grey literature. This review identifies the main associated risk factors —such as deterioration in health, loss of social network or living alone— as well as the serious consequences for physical, mental and emotional health, including depression, cognitive impairment, cardiovascular diseases and the risk of frailty or dependency.
The study also highlights the gender differences observed in various studies, with a special vulnerability in older women, and highlights the need to promote community intervention strategies that are sustainable and adapted to different social and cultural contexts.
Furthermore, it highlights the lack of longitudinal studies and the need to delve deeper into the relationship between loneliness and aging in the field of public health. The article has been prepared by researchers Meritxell Puyané, Carolina Chabrera, Enric Camón and Esther Cabrera, who work in an integrated manner to provide scientific evidence and generate social impact in promoting the well-being and quality of life of older people.