Diseases associated with loneliness in the elderly: a social challenge

Abstract

Objective: Identify pathologies in the elderly associated with loneliness. Methodology: Secondary research, integrative review type, structured according to Crossetti’s consensus. Results: After applying descriptors and search strategies, a total of 4,011 articles were identified, after applying filters, inclusion, and exclusion criteria, 27 articles were selected; from these articles 17 corresponded to WoS, 9 to BVS and 1 to PubMed. Conclusions: The association between loneliness and cognitive impairment, decreased physical fitness, Alzheimer's disease and cardiovascular events is highlighted. It is necessary to establish public policies to prepare people for their future aging process.