Loneliness as a Policy Issue

Why governments have started treating loneliness as a public health and economic problem, and what policies aim to reduce it.

Loneliness, the painful feeling of lacking the social connections one wants, has become recognised as a serious public health issue. It affects people of all ages, though older people, young adults and people with disabilities are often especially affected.

The costs

Research has linked loneliness and social isolation to higher risks of heart disease, stroke, depression and dementia. In 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General issued an advisory describing an “epidemic of loneliness and isolation” and comparing the health risks of social disconnection to other major risk factors. The World Health Organization launched a Commission on Social Connection in 2023.

Economically, loneliness raises health care costs, reduces productivity and can increase demand for care services.

Government responses

In 2018, the United Kingdom appointed a Minister for Loneliness and published a national strategy.
In 2021, Japan appointed a minister responsible for loneliness and isolation, following concerns about rising suicides during the pandemic.
Other countries and cities have launched programmes to strengthen social connections.

Policies and programmes

Social prescribing: doctors refer patients to community activities, such as clubs, volunteering, arts or exercise groups, rather than only to medical treatment.
Befriending services: volunteers regularly visit or call isolated people.
Community spaces: libraries, parks and community centres where people can meet.
Accessible transport, so people can reach others.
Intergenerational programmes connecting young and old.

A phone call a week

An older blind woman living alone rarely leaves her home because of difficulties with transport. A volunteer from a befriending programme calls her twice a week and helps her join a local audio book club. Her mood improves, and she visits her doctor less often. A small, low-cost intervention improves wellbeing and may reduce health costs.

Disability and loneliness

Surveys have found that disabled people, including blind people, report higher rates of loneliness, often due to inaccessible transport, venues and communication. Improving accessibility can therefore reduce isolation.

Thinking loneliness is only a private matter

Loneliness affects health, productivity and care costs across society. Public policies, from accessible transport to community spaces, can reduce it.

Key takeaways

Loneliness is linked to higher risks of heart disease, depression and dementia.
The U.S. Surgeon General warned of a loneliness epidemic in 2023.
The UK and Japan appointed ministers responsible for loneliness.
Social prescribing, befriending, community spaces and accessibility help reduce isolation.