Loneliness is strongly linked to depression among older adults, a long term study suggests

Depression is a major public health problem that is growing worldwide. The causes are complex and vary from person to person. However, new research estimates that up to one in five cases of depression among older adults could be prevented by reducing loneliness. The study therefore has important public health implications, highlighting the need for comprehensive action across society to combat loneliness.

This is the first large, long-term study to investigate the link between loneliness and depression in people aged 50 or older. It confirms that feeling lonely is associated with an increased risk of future depression. The link exists irrespective of other related social experiences and exists even among people who are not socially isolated or who feel socially supported. After experiencing loneliness, the risk of depression persists for up to 12 years.

Loneliness can be changed or controlled, unlike other risk factors for depression, such as our genes. But previous studies looking at the relationship between loneliness and depression have so far been inconclusive.

This research supports the implementation of the Government’s strategy for tackling loneliness in England, which launched in 2018 and has become particularly relevant following lockdowns and social distancing during the pandemic.

READ MORE HERE