Open AccessSocial Isolation as a Mechanism Linking Sensory Impairment With Cognitive Functioning
Author(s) -
Jeremy B. Yorgason,
Corinna Trujillo Tanner,
Stephanie Richardson,
Allison Burch,
Brian C. Stagg,
Melanie S. Hill
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
innovation in aging
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2399-5300
DOI - 10.1093/geroni/igaa057.2095
Subject(s) - social isolation , psychology , mediation , cognition , sensory system , cognitive skill , isolation (microbiology) , audiology , developmental psychology , sensory processing , longitudinal study , hearing loss , social cognition , cognitive psychology , medicine , psychiatry , microbiology and biotechnology , pathology , political science , law , biology
Hearing and vision loss have been linked with cognitive decline in older adults. There may be various pathways through which sensory impairments impact cognitive functioning. Sensory impairments may lead individuals to be less socially connected, which may impact cognitive functioning due to less cognitive stimulation. As such, sensory impairments and social isolation may cascade to negatively impact cognitive functioning. Using data from 8,334 individuals aged 65-90+ in waves 6, 7, and 8 of the NHATS study, we estimated a longitudinal mediation structural equation model. Findings indicate that both self-reported vision and hearing impairment in wave 6 of NHATS were linked to concurrent cognitive functioning through social isolation. Only hearing impairment demonstrated longitudinal impact through social isolation across 2 and 3 waves. Findings suggest that medical professionals working with older adults with vision or hearing impairment should assess social isolation, as a point of intervention to maintain cognitive function.