Loneliness and social support of older people in China: a systematic literature review

The prevalence of loneliness among older people in China varies significantly across studies.

• Loneliness is associated with factors such as marital status, gender, age, educational level, economic level, living arrangements, health status, and social support.
• Family is identified as the most important source of social support for older individuals, enhancing their subjective well-being and mental health.
• Support from friends has inconsistent effects on loneliness and well-being.
• Older people in China reported receiving relatively little support from neighbors, government, or other social organizations.
• Further studies are needed to explore additional factors related to loneliness and to clarify the role of support from friends, neighbors, and formal organizations.

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