Control, introversion, and social support: a model of loneliness in Alzheimer's caregivers

Loneliness in caregivers of Alzheimer's family members was examined through the use of an explanatory model. Stepwise multiple regression was used to test the association between characterological variables (introversion and control), situational variables (social support), demographics (income), and self-reported loneliness in a statewide mail survey of 190 caregivers. Results indicated that introversion, control, social support, and income account for almost two-thirds of the variance in loneliness. An interesting finding was that higher income was associated with higher levels of loneliness in the caregivers. Implications for practice are discussed and recommendations for future research are suggested.