Effect of social exclusion on attitude toward ageing in older adults living alone in Shanghai

Background: Attitude toward ageing affects health and well being of older adults. We examined the effect of social exclusion on such attitude among older adults living alone in a neighbourhood in Shanghai, China.

Methods: 228 randomly selected Chinese aged ≥60 years and living alone completed a structured questionnaire. Their attitude toward ageing was the dependent variable. Five statements were used to capture their attitude toward ageing and the role and status of older people in society. Social exclusion was represented by variables of income adequacy, social support, civic participation, and housing condition. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis was conducted to examine the effects of the 5 social exclusion variables on attitude toward ageing.

Results: Being a female, having depressive symptoms, and social exclusion variables related to unfavourable housing condition and social relations were significantly associated with a less positive attitude toward ageing.

Conclusion: Efforts should focus on helping older adults who are female or have depressive symptoms to reduce social exclusion related to housing condition and social relations.