The Relationship between Loneliness and Depression in Older Adults

In contemporary societies, characterised by an increasing average lifespan, the phenomena of loneliness and the prevalence of depressive symptoms among the elderly population have emerged as topics of significant interest. This paper aimed to explore the relationship between loneliness and depressive manifestations in older individuals through a longitudinal approach. A comprehensive review of the existing literature led to the selection of ten significant studies, whose findings reveal a consistent and significant association between loneliness and depressive symptoms. This correlation highlights the need for complex research designs incorporating moderating variables to deepen our understanding of the underlying mechanisms. Therefore, future investigations should focus on identifying and analysing the impact of moderating variables on the dynamics of the relationship between loneliness and depression, to develop therapeutic interventions tailored to the specific needs of the elderly population.