Application of the Internet and its Association with Loneliness among Retired Teachers

The social engagement and participation of older adults in society are seen as indicators of healthy ageing. With the changing nature of society over recent years, many elderly people are at risk of being lonely. Evidence shows that loneliness has an adverse effect on older adults. Therefore, it is important to find some ways to overcome this problem. This study aimed to assess the level of loneliness among Iranian retired teachers and the impact of Internet application on the sense of loneliness and depression in this group. This Cross-sectional study was conducted among 445 retired teachers which 43 of them were Internet user. Data collected by a questionnaire consisted of three sections including demographic questions, 15 questions of Social and Emotional Loneliness Scale (SELSA), and 5 GDS questions. from a Principle Component Factor Analysis reduced SELSA items to a three-factor model including Social, Family and Romantic Subscales. For Internet users one more section was used including 3 parts: frequency, history and nature of Internet application. Data was analyzed by SPSS. Results T, 37% of the non-user respondents reported social loneliness compared to 18.6% of users (P =. 002) However prevalence of family loneliness in those who were non-user was significantly lower (P =. 001). Living alone, being widowed or separated were predictors of loneliness (P < 0.05). Findings showed that, the level of depression in users were significantly lower than that of non-users (P =. 002) (%27.9 followed by %39.2). These findings in combination suggest that the level of loneliness and depression among non-user retired people is almost higher than users. Therefore, it is important to identify and implement strategies such as using the Internet to overcome the loneliness experienced by elderly people.