Social isolation and loneliness are important but often ignored social determinants of health at all ages, including older adults. Quality social connections are essential to our physical and mental health and well-being.
Social isolation and loneliness are widespread, with up to one in three older adults reporting feeling lonely in some countries. Numerous studies have shown that social isolation and loneliness have a serious impact on older adults’ longevity, physical and mental health, and quality of life. The impact of social isolation and loneliness on mortality has been compared with other established risk factors for mortality, such as smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity.
A variety of in-person and digital interventions have been developed to reduce social isolation and loneliness in older adults. These include social skills training, community and support groups, friendships, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Creating more age-friendly communities by improving access to transportation and information and communication technology can also help reduce feelings of social isolation and loneliness. Additionally, laws and policies that address marginalization and discrimination can foster greater social connectedness.
In the context of the United Nations Decade of Healthy Aging (2021-2030), WHO is working with partners to address social isolation and loneliness as a pressing public health and policy concern. To this end, we are implementing the following initiatives:
- Develop guidance on how to implement and scale up effective interventions to reduce social isolation and loneliness.
- Improving research and strengthening the evidence of what works.and
- Create a global coalition to make social isolation and loneliness a political priority for older people.