Loss in Old Age: The Role of Sociodemographic and Cognitive Factors

Abstract

Understanding how different types of losses accumulate and are perceived in later life is essential for designing effective mental health interventions. This study examined the types, co-occurrence, and perceived intensity of losses experienced by older adults in Chile, where no prior research has systematically addressed this phenomenon. We also analyzed how sociodemographic variables (sex, education, income, and social network characteristics) and cognitive impairment without dementia relate to the experience of loss. One hundred ninety-four community-dwelling older adults in Chile completed the Scale of Losses in Old Age (SLO), the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and a sociodemographic questionnaire. Results confirmed the accumulation of diverse, mostly moderate-intensity losses, particularly the death of significant others and declines in health and physical capacity. Losses tended to co-occur and were significantly associated with socioeconomic disadvantage and dissatisfaction with close relationships, especially with children. Cognitive impairment was associated with greater intensity of specific losses but did not independently predict overall burden. These findings highlight the importance of considering the number and types of losses, their subjective appraisal, and the structural and relational conditions that shape their psychological impact. The study offers a novel framework for assessing loss in old age and provides context-sensitive evidence to inform policy and intervention design.