The association of social isolation and loneliness with sarcopenia among the middle-aged and elderly in China

Objectives This study examined the relationship of social isolation and loneliness on sarcopenia among Chinese middle-aged and elderly people. Methods Social isolation, loneliness, and sarcopenia were measured at baseline. Follow-up measures of new-onset sarcopenia were obtained 4 years later. Then used logistic regression to evaluate the association between social isolation, loneliness and sarcopenia. Results In cross-sectional analysis, social isolation and loneliness are significantly associated with sarcopenia [OR = 1.88 (95% CI = 1.54–2.28)]. In longitudinal analysis, social isolation and loneliness are significantly associated with sarcopenia [OR = 1.09 (95% CI = 0.71–1.69)]. Social isolation and loneliness have a synergistic effect. Among them, individuals over 60 years old [OR = 2.01 (95% CI = 1.37–2.96)] and those without social support [OR = 2.64 (1.61–4.32), P -for interaction < 0.001] are at higher risk. Conclusion Social isolation and loneliness were significantly associated with sarcopenia, and there was a synergistic effect between social isolation and loneliness.