Analysis of Indicators of Loneliness and Their Relationship with Physical Activity Levels in Kosovo
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DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70736/2958.8332.kosalb.50Keywords:
Loneliness, Physical Activity, Gender, Parental Impact, Residence, Marital StatusAbstract
Study aim(s): This study aims to examine the prevalence of loneliness among adults in Kosovo, with a focus attention to gender, place of residence, marital status, and lifestyle habits. Additionally, it seeks to analyze the relationship between physical activity levels and experiences of loneliness.
Methods: A total of 128 participants completed a demographic questionnaire, along with two standardized instruments: the UCLA Loneliness Scale and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Data were collected virtually following ethical approval, and participation was entirely voluntary.
Results: This study found no statistically significant differences in overall levels of loneliness based on gender, place of residence, or lifestyle. However, responses to specific questions indicated that women exhibited higher levels of sensitivity. Notably, individuals in relationships reported higher levels of loneliness than those who were married or single. Regarding physical activity, men were generally more active than women, and rural residents engaged in more strenuous forms of exercise. A particularly important finding was that walking for more than 10 minutes per day had a positive and statistically meaningful impact on reducing feelings of loneliness.
Conclusion: The findings support the importance of promoting physical activity and suggest that incorporating at least a daily walk may serve as an effective strategy for preventing and managing loneliness.
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