A Longitudinal Study on Social Isolation, Chronic Diseases, and Depressive Symptoms: Evidence From the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging

Objective This study examined the longitudinal effects of social isolation on chronic diseases and depressive symptoms among middle-aged and older adults in South Korea, with attention to gender and age differences. Method Using data from three waves of the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging, longitudinal path analysis was conducted on 5,585 participants. Results Women and older adults showed higher levels of social isolation, chronic diseases, and depressive symptoms, indicating greater vulnerability. Significant longitudinal and bidirectional associations emerged among social isolation, chronic diseases, and depressive symptoms over time. While gender differences in long-term patterns were modest, age-related disparities were more substantial. Conclusion These findings underscore the importance of strengthening community-based social networks and implementing both conventional outreach—such as home visits—and innovative approaches, including technology-assisted companionship, to identify socially isolated individuals, particularly older adults.