Depression and Cognitive Functioning as Predictors of Social Network Size

Abstract

Social networks change with age and may affect physical and mental health outcomes. Few studies have examined the influence of cognitive functioning and depressive symptoms on social network sizes among older adults. This study examined the impact of cognition and depression on the social networks of 79 community dwelling elderly. Social network sizes were measured using Antonucci's Convoy method. Consistent with predictions, participants with lower cognitive functioning scores had fewer outer circle social contacts. Higher depressive symptomatology was associated with smaller numbers of close, inner circle relationships. These results suggest potentially greater network changes in older adults experiencing depressive symptomatology or cognitive decline, albeit in different aspects of the social network (close vs. peripheral relationships). Possessing fewer emotionally rewarding close relationships may be particularly difficult for elderly individuals relying on emotional and instrumental support. These findings also imply that poorer cognitive functioning may accelerate the reduction of outer circle networks.

Keywords:

• cognitive functioning
• Convoy
• depression
• social networks
• socioemotional selectivity theory