Theoretical Foundations and Research Design

In the preceding literature review, this study synthesized research findings on social isolation and loneliness among older adults living alone from an ethical perspective, while also tracing the developmental trajectory of policies and social support mechanisms. However, despite the abundance of research in this field, systematic empirical studies on the causes of solitary living among older adults in contemporary society remain limited. Therefore, this study will first analyze macro-level data to examine the current status and regional characteristics of solitary elderly populations. It will then explore the psychological challenges and practical needs experienced by these individuals at the personal level. This approach aims to generate deeper insights into the mechanisms underlying social isolation and to identify potential mitigation strategies within the context of modern elderly care policies and evolving family structures.