Loneliness & Isolation

Apr 18

Isolation harms health.

Social isolation and loneliness are increasing across all age groups, negatively affecting both physical and mental health. Despite their importance, these issues are often overlooked, even though they are key social determinants of health for people of all ages — including older adults.

Insights

Political: Few national health strategies explicitly address social isolation, though awareness is growing through global initiatives like the UN Decade of Healthy Aging.

Economic: Loneliness contributes to increased healthcare costs through higher rates of illness, longer hospital stays, and delayed recovery.

Social: One in four older adults experience social isolation, and 5–15% of adolescents report feeling lonely. Loneliness affects people across all ages, cultures, and income levels, weakening social bonds and overall resilience.

Technological: Digital tools can foster connection but may also displace in-person interaction, especially among older adults with limited digital literacy.

Legal: The right to participation and inclusion is fundamental, yet unaddressed isolation can reflect social neglect and unequal access to community support systems.

Environmental: Urban design, transport, and public spaces influence the ability to connect; inclusive, age-friendly environments can reduce isolation.

Reflective Questions

How might we redesign public spaces and services to foster meaningful social connection?
How can digital tools be reimagined to enhance—not replace—real human interaction?
How might health systems integrate social connection as a measurable outcome of care?