Cross-sectional analysis reveals reduced loneliness via increased self-compassion among older adults, highlighting a key psychological mechanism driven by regular exercise habits.
The purpose of this study was to examine a mediation model in which exercise habits, as a form of physical activity, reduce loneliness through self-compassion. A total of 300 Japanese adults (mean age 60.1) completed the Exercise Habit Strength Scale, the Self-Compassion Scale, and the UCLA Loneliness Scale (Version 3). Results of the mediation analysis indicated a significant indirect effect, whereby physical activity enhanced self-compassion, which in turn reduced loneliness. These findings suggest that physical activity affects loneliness through the mediating role of self-compassion, supporting a full mediation model.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Tomii et al. (2026) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: