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Structural and Health-Related Factors Associated with Loneliness in Older Vermonters
Frias, Chris Mokhtarian, Sophia Mueller, Angela Tran, Kim-li Wizda, Caitlin
Frias, Chris
Mokhtarian, Sophia
Mueller, Angela
Tran, Kim-li
Wizda, Caitlin
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Abstract
Background: Loneliness is associated with increased morbidity and mortality among older adults. National studies identify transportation barriers, functional limitations, and reduced social networks as contributors, but Vermont-specific evidence remains limited. This study examined demographic, structural, health-related, and social factors associated with loneliness.
Methods: Adults aged 55 years and older utilizing senior centers or senior housing completed a 32-item self-reported REDCap survey, in person, by mail, or online. Validated instruments included the Transportation Insecurity Index (TSI-6), Lubben Social Network Scale (LSNS-6), UCLA 3-Item Loneliness Scale, Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS-6) disability measures, and a 1-item self-rated health measure. Descriptive statistics and two independent sample t-tests were used to assess associations with loneliness.
Results: Sixty-four participants completed the survey. Greater loneliness was significantly associated with higher age (p=0.027), current employment (p=0.012), transportation insecurity (p<0.001), functional disability (p=0.009), and smaller social networks (p<0.001). Respondents aged 75 years and older reported significantly smaller social networks (p=0.016), as did those reporting a significant cognitive impairment (p=0.036). Participants completing the survey from private residences reported significantly higher loneliness compared with those living in senior housing (p=0.020). Qualitative findings reinforced these associations, highlighting limited and infrequent bus routes, inadequate rural transportation coverage, unreliable transportation services, and barriers to participating in community programs.
Conclusion: Loneliness among older Vermonters was strongly associated with transportation insecurity, functional disability, smaller social networks, age, and residential setting. Improving rural transportation infrastructure, increasing the reliability of specialized transit services, and expanding accessible community programming may reduce loneliness and promote healthy aging and social connection across Vermont.
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2026-01-28
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Age Strong VT