Development of a Multidimensional Scale of Social Integration in Later Life

Social integration is increasingly recognized as key to successful aging; however, definitions and assessments vary greatly across gerontological studies. This study describes the development of and provides preliminary evidence for the multidimensional Social Integration in Later Life Scale (SILLS). A review of previous measures led to the development of a 30-item questionnaire, which was given to a community-based sample of 399 older adults (ages 60-100). Factor analysis was used to determine a four-factor structure that included dimensions of frequency-social ties, frequency-social activities, satisfaction-social ties, and satisfaction-social activities. The overall scale Cronbach's was .86 (subscales ranged from .72 to .84), demonstrating good internal consistency. Preliminary results suggest that the SILLS has adequate concurrent and convergent validity. By assessing enacted and perceived integration across social ties and activities, this comprehensive measure is a useful tool for understanding social integration in later life.