The relationship between family communication networks and elderly loneliness: A structural equation modeling approach across three generations

Background and Objective Loneliness is a widespread challenge among older adults, often linked to negative health outcomes. This study explores how family communications among individual members representing three generations is associated with loneliness in elderly participants, aiming to clarify which family relationships are most impactful. Methods Using partial least squares structural equation modeling, we examined the effects of marital intimacy in both the older generation (G1) and their adult children (G2), as well as broader family factors such as intergenerational solidarity, family cohesion, sibling relationship, in-law interaction, children’s support for parents and grandparent-grandchild relationship, on loneliness in elderly family members. Results The findings revealed that marital intimacy within the G2 was the only direct predictor associated with reduced loneliness among older adults (β = −0.314, p = 0.019). The marital closeness of the older generation showed only a weak association (β = −0.194, p = 0.067). Other family relationship factors, including general cohesion and intergenerational bonds, did not demonstrate meaningful direct or indirect effects. Importantly, the quality of G1 marital relationships showed indirect associations with loneliness by strengthening the marital bonds of G2, highlighting a pattern of relationship qualities being passed between generations. Conclusion This study suggests that it is not broad family connectedness but rather the quality of key dyadic relationships, especially among middle-aged couples, that matters most for elderly loneliness. Efforts to enhance marital relationships in the middle generation may be associated with lower loneliness for their aging parents.