Determining the levels of loneliness, depression, and life satisfaction among older adults attending the University of the Third age

An analysis from a gerontological social work perspective

Bibliographic Data

ID21537323
AuthorsYeliz Bayram (0000-0001-5379-448X, University of Health Sciences, corresponding author), Harun Ceylan (0000-0001-9047-2316, Yalova University)
Year2026
Pages1-11
Publication date2026-05-05
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueEducational Gerontology (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0360-1277 • E-ISSN: 1521-0472
PublisherInforma UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/03601277.2026.2667860
OpenAlexW7160237435
LanguageEN
References cited25

This study aimed to examine the effects of participation in University of the Third Age (U3A) training on loneliness, depression, and life satisfaction among older adults from a gerontological social work perspective. Using a pretest-posttest control group design, this experimental field study was conducted with seventy-three individuals aged 60 and over. Independent-samples t-test results showed no significant pretest differences between the experimental and control groups in loneliness, depression, or life satisfaction. At posttest, the experimental group had significantly higher life satisfaction and significantly lower loneliness and depression scores than the control group. In addition, significant within-group changes were observed in the experimental group, whereas no significant changes were found in the control group. The findings suggest that participation in U3A programs may support psychosocial well-being among older adults. From a gerontological social work perspective, U3A may represent a valuable community-based resource for promoting social participation and well-being in later life

Gerontological nursing · Job satisfaction · Life satisfaction · Older people · Time perspective · Aging and Gerontology Research · Elder Abuse and Neglect · Health and Well-being Studies

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