Older adults' motives for mediated interpersonal communication: An examination of telephone communication and loneliness

Abstract

This study examined how older adults’ dimensions of contextual age (i.e., life circumstances) and motives for using telephone communication predicted feelings of loneliness. Telephone communication can offer a vital link to others who can provide emotional and social support, instrumental aid, information, and services. Older adults experiencing greater life satisfaction, interpersonal interaction, and mobility were less likely to experience loneliness. Opportunities for interpersonal interaction and social activity were linked to communication motives. Older adults reporting greater loneliness were less likely to use telephone communication to fulfill affection motives while they were more likely to use it to fulfill safety and escape needs.