The level of Social Isolation and Loneliness among American Muslims aged 50 years and above and their associations with Depression, Morbidity, Self-rated Health, and Healthcare Utilization

Abstract

Background: Social isolation and loneliness are growing public health concerns, especially among older adults, due to their association with poor health outcomes like depression, lower self-rated health, and increased healthcare use. However, little is known about these issues among American Muslims aged 50 and older—a group often underrepresented in research. This study aims to examine levels of social isolation and loneliness in this population and explore their relationships with morbidity, self-rated health, healthcare utilization, and the mediating role of depression.Method: A cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted with a convenience sample of 105 American Muslims aged 50+ in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Participants were recruited from Islamic centers and healthcare organizations and completed a survey assessing social isolation (Berkman–Syme Social Network Index), loneliness (UCLA-3 Loneliness Scale), depression (CES-D-10), self-rated health, morbidity, and healthcare utilization. Demographic data included age, gender, race, place of birth, immigration year, and perceived discrimination. Correlation and mediation analyses were used to examine variable relationships and the role of depression. Results: Participants had a mean age of 64 years (SD = 9). Social isolation was reported by 18.1% and loneliness by 21%. Social isolation significantly correlated with loneliness (β = .38, p < .001) and was associated with poorer self-rated health (β = .35, p < .001). Similarly, loneliness was linked to worse self-rated health (β = .35, p = .003) and increased healthcare utilization (β = .27, p < .05). Depression mediated the associations between both social isolation and loneliness with health outcomes. No significant relationship was found between social isolation or loneliness and morbidity. Conclusion: This study highlights the need for culturally sensitive nursing interventions and community programs addressing depression and social disconnection among aging American Muslims.2027-05-2