Older Portuguese men living in the community: life satisfaction, social isolation, depression, and loneliness

Purpose This study aims to identify distinct profiles of life satisfaction social isolation depression and loneliness among community-dwelling older men and to examine their associations with sociodemographic characteristics. Design/methodology/approach A cross-sectional design was used using secondary data from a sample of 175 older men. Data collection encompassed sociodemographic variables alongside validated scales measuring social isolation, life satisfaction, depression and loneliness. Findings Cluster analysis revealed four profiles: mildly satisfied without loneliness (44%), moderately satisfied but lonely (25.1%), highly satisfied (20%) and poorly satisfied and depressed (10.9%). Significant associations emerged between clusters, marital status and living arrangements. Unmarried men and those living alone were more prevalent in the “moderately satisfied but lonely” group. Research limitations/implications The findings of this study underscore the need for further research on loneliness and social isolation in older men, particularly from a gender-sensitive perspective, to inform targeted interventions and support services. Originality/value This study contributes to a deeper understanding of male ageing by identifying four distinct psychosocial profiles among community-dwelling older men. This study highlights the complexity and diversity of factors influencing well-being in this population, dimensions that remain underexplored in the existing literature.