IMPACT OF SOCIAL ISOLATION ON FALLS AND HOSPITALIZATION AMONG OLDER ADULTS WITH AND WITHOUT KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: 1 YEAR PHONE-CALL FOLLOW-UP STUDY

Abstract

Background & Objectives: Osteoarthritis increases the risk of falls among older adults, and limited social support may further exacerbate this risk, potentially leading to adverse health outcomes such as falls and hospitalization. This study aimed to determine the impact of social isolation on the risk of falls and hospitalization among older adults with and without knee osteoarthritis (OA) in Malaysia. Methods: A longitudinal study with a one-year follow-up was conducted among adults aged 50 years and above in Klang Valley and Selangor. Baseline data included demographic information, clinical examination for knee OA, and the Lubben Social Network Scale to assess social isolation. After one year, participants were contacted via telephone to collect information on falls and hospitalization. Results: The study included 174 participants, of whom 113 (65%) had knee OA and 61 (35%) did not. No significant association was observed between social isolation and the risk of falls or hospitalization, regardless of knee OA status. Gender, social engagement, and living arrangement did not significantly modify these outcomes. Conclusion: Social isolation did not significantly impact falls or hospitalization among older adults with or without knee OA over a one-year period. These findings should be interpreted with caution due to limitations such as recruitment from socially active community centres and a relatively short follow-up. Future studies should consider longer follow-up periods, diverse recruitment settings, and the role of physical activity and functional status in influencing these outcomes.