Gendered Dimensions of Ageing Alone: Examining Health and Quality of Life among Older Adults in India

ABHISHEK ANAND, International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS)
T R Dilip, IIPS

To investigate the association of ageing alone on various health outcomes and quality of life (QoL) among older adults, with a focus on gender-specific differences we analysed the nationally representative dataset of Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI). Using logistic regression models, we analysed the association between ageing alone and self-rated health (SRH), multimorbidity, cognitive impairment, depression, and limitations in activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL). Additionally, we examined differences in QoL across key domains such as general health, life satisfaction, physical, psychological, social, and environmental QoL. The findings show that ageing alone significantly increases the risk of poor QoL and health outcomes for both men and women. Men ageing alone have higher odds of poor SRH (OR: 1.88), cognitive impairment (OR: 2.03), and depression (OR: 2.71), along with increased ADL and IADL limitations. Similarly, women ageing alone experience greater risks of poor SRH, cognitive impairment, and depression. These results suggest that loneliness and social isolation contribute to significant physical and mental health challenges, particularly in terms of depression and functional decline. Strengthening social capital, fostering community engagement, and enhancing access to health and social services can reduce the risks associated with ageing alone.

Keywords: Population Ageing, Health and Morbidity, Older Adults and Intergenerational Relations

See extended abstract.