Invisible Walls: A Concept Analysis of Social Isolation in Family Caregivers
Issued Date
2026-01-01
Resource Type
ISSN
00296473
eISSN
17446198
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-105037878155
Journal Title
Nursing Forum
Volume
2026
Issue
1
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SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Nursing Forum Vol.2026 No.1 (2026)
Suggested Citation
Wang L., Tankumpuan T., Davidson P.M. Invisible Walls: A Concept Analysis of Social Isolation in Family Caregivers. Nursing Forum Vol.2026 No.1 (2026). doi:10.1155/nuf/9920801 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/123456789/116648
Title
Invisible Walls: A Concept Analysis of Social Isolation in Family Caregivers
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Abstract
Background: Social isolation is a state of disconnection from social relationships and networks. Clarifying social isolation in family caregivers is important to develop interventions. Purpose: This analysis aimed to define the concept of social isolation in family caregivers and to determine its conceptual attributes, antecedents, and consequences. Methods: A concept analysis using Walker and Avant’s (2019) method was undertaken. Databases including PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, and PsycINFO were systematically searched from 1979 to 2025. A total of 53 studies published in English were included. Results: Five attributes of social isolation were identified as lack of social contact; reduced social engagement; limited social support; deficiency in stable and fulfilling relationships; and loneliness. The antecedents included caregiving responsibility and obligation; health conditions and dependency of the care recipient; compromised physical and psychological health of caregivers; and contextual constraints on caregiving. The consequences included increased caregiving burden, increased physical and psychological distress, decreased life satisfaction, and decreased capability to provide care. Conclusion: A conceptual model of social isolation in family caregivers was developed. The attributes, antecedents, and consequences of social isolation in family caregivers identified in this study contribute to a better understanding and provide a theoretical basis for future assessment tools and interventions for social isolation among family caregivers.