Social Connectedness and Suicide Ideation among Community-Residing Older Adults: A Psychometric Investigation and Assessment of a Theoretical Model
Abstract
Suicide poses a significant global public health concern, disproportionately affecting older adults. This thesis investigated the role of social connectedness in potentially protecting against suicide ideation among community-residing older adults in Ontario, Canada. A scoping review and psychometric evaluation were conducted to validate the suitability of the Social Connectedness Scale – Revised (SCS-R) with older adults. A conceptual model of older adult suicide risk (see Heisel & Flett, 2014) was also tested, utilizing bivariate correlation and multivariable regression analyses, to assess the association between social connectedness and suicide ideation, accounting for demographic covariates, risk (depression), and precipitating factors (daily hassles). Results indicated a significant negative association between social connectedness and suicide ideation, controlling for covariates, risk, and precipitating factors. The findings highlight the importance of social connectedness in potentially protecting against suicide ideation and thus contributing to suicide prevention initiatives in older adults. This study contributes to understanding the complex interplay of psychological factors influencing late-life suicide risk.