Social isolation and loneliness guide

There is a growing body of research showing that social isolation and loneliness are serious conditions that can have a harmful effect on physical and mental health, as well as bringing costs to public finance, particularly health and social care, and to the economy.

Social isolation and loneliness can affect all members of society but may not be obvious, particularly when people first present to services.

People who experience social isolation and loneliness are more likely to experience depression and anxiety, be physically inactive, smoke and drink alcohol, have an increased risk of heart disease and dementia, and die prematurely.

Lonely and/or socially isolated individuals are more likely to visit their GP and hospital emergency departments. Three-quarters of GPs say that up to five of their patients each day attend mainly because they are lonely.

People who are lonely also have a higher incidence of falls and are at increased risk of needing long-term care, including residential and nursing home care. This results in significant and potentially avoidable costs to public services.