The Combined Effect of Functional Independence, Loneliness, and Social Engagement on Older Adult Drinking Levels

ABSTRACT Loneliness has long been associated with older adult alcohol use; however, the relationship between loneliness and alcohol use remains complex and poorly understood. The purpose of this study is to examine a possible causal pathway between functional independence, social engagement, loneliness, and drinking among older adults using structural equation modeling. A lower level of functional independence was a significant predictor of higher levels of loneliness and lower levels of social engagement. Additionally, higher feelings of loneliness predicted higher levels of drinking and higher levels of social engagement predicted lower levels of drinking.