The Impact of Spousal Bereavement on Older Adults Cognitive Functioning: The Moderating Role of Social Support

Abstract

Objective. This study examines how spousal bereavement and cognitive functioning of older adults are related and how social support plays a role in determining this relationship, thus perceived social support is taken as a moderator.

Method. Convenience sampling in Rawalpindi and Islamabad was used to collect data from older adults (N = 192, M = 68.23 years).  A moderation analysis was conducted to investigate the effect of social support on the association between spousal bereavement and cognitive functioning.

Results. This study presented a negative significant relationship between cognitive functioning and spousal bereavement. Cognitive functioning and social support had a positive significant relationship whereas spousal bereavement and social support had a significant negative correlation. Moderation analysis results showed an insignificant moderation effect of social support on the relationship between spousal bereavement and cognitive functioning of older adults (b = -0.0063, t (128) = -1.33, and p = 0.851).

Implications. The study facilitates researchers to build upon current knowledge regarding spousal bereavement, cognitive functioning, and social support in older adults. It aids policymakers in designing interventions by focusing on integrated social support networks to better manage the negative effect of bereavement.