Abstract
BACKGROUND: Previous studies have emphasized the impact of social networks on cognitive function, but limited attention has been paid to the relationship between social networks and subjective cognitive decline (SCD) and its underlying mechanisms. To provide a theoretical basis for the prevention and management of SCD, this study aimed to investigate the current situation of social networks and SCD among younger older adults, further elucidate the relationship between them, particularly by comparing the impacts of family networks and friend networks on SCD, and explore the role of self-perception of aging (SPA) as a mediator in above associations. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, we surveyed 652 younger older adults from six cities utilizing a general information questionnaire, the Lubben Social Network Scale-6 (LSNS-6), the Subjective Cognitive Decline Questionnaire (SCD-Q9) and the Brief Ageing Perceptions Questionnaire (B-APQ). Regression models were performed to explore the association between social networks and SCD, while the mediating effect of SPA was examined by using the bootstrap method to validate path effects. RESULTS: Of the participants, 38.04% of individuals had SCD scores above 50. The prevalence of social isolation was 27.5%, with specific rates of 12.3% for family isolation and 44.9% for friend isolation. After adjusting for key demographic characteristics, it was found that social networks (B = -0.05, p < 0.001), especially friend networks (B = -0.07, p < 0.01), were negatively associated with SCD. Additionally, SPA was identified as a partial mediator in the relationship between social networks and SCD (B = -0.007, 95% CI: -0.032, -0.002), as well as friend networks and SCD (B = -0.011, 95% CI: -0.021, -0.004). CONCLUSIONS: Younger older adults exhibited a high risk of social isolation, with friend isolation being particularly severe. The significant prevalence of SCD among younger older adults has emerged as a pressing health concern. Social networks exhibited a negative association with SCD, with SPA serving as a mediating role in this relationship. Moving forward, comprehensive interventions aimed at addressing SCD in older adults should consider strategies to enhance social networks and improve SPA.