Latent Profile Analysis and Determinants of Social Isolation among Older Adults in China

Background This study aimed to identify social isolation profiles among older adults in China using latent profile analysis and to explore their associations with demographic and health factors. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted between July and December 2023 in the Chaoyang and Dongcheng districts of Beijing, China. Participants aged 60 years or older were recruited through convenience sampling from six communities. Latent profile analysis was applied to classify patterns of social isolation. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to assess factors associated with different profiles of social isolation. Results A total of 529 participants were included. Three social isolation profiles were identified: the mild social isolation group (n = 239), the moderate social isolation group (n = 213), and the severe social isolation group (n = 77). In the context of comparing mild to severe social isolation, multivariate analysis revealed that older adults living alone without care had significantly higher odds of severe social isolation compared to those living with children (OR = 0.099, 95% CI: 0.034–0.377, P  < 0.001). Frailty (OR = 0.141, 95% CI: 0.039–0.588, P  = 0.033), severe ADL dependence (OR = 0.249, 95% CI: 0.145–0.454, P  = 0.048), and moderate to severe IADL dependence (OR = 0.448 to 0.307, P  < 0.05) were also significantly associated with severe social isolation. Similarly, in the comparison between moderate and severe group, compared to those living with children, older adults living alone without care were more likely to experience severe social isolation (OR = 0.199, 95% CI: 0.078–0.328, P  = 0.001). In terms of functional status, severe ADL dependence (OR = 0.152, 95% CI: 0.061–0.505, P  = 0.015) and moderate to severe IADL dependence (OR = 0.231 to 0.128, P  < 0.05) were significantly associated with severe social isolation. Conclusions Older adults living alone without care, with frailty, and with functional dependence are at significantly higher risk of severe social isolation. Understanding the specific factors contributing to different profiles can inform tailored support strategies aimed at enhancing social engagement and improving the quality of life within this population.