ORCID
Halvorsen, https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9184-633X
Language
English (en)
Publication Date
2-2026
Summary
Social isolation and loneliness, which are experienced by many older adults, can negatively impact health and well-being. Although often used interchangeably, social isolation is defined as an objective lack of social ties (e.g., number of close family members or friends) and loneliness as an internal sense of disconnection (e.g., feeling alone even when surrounded by others). Because social relationships, health, and life circumstances change as we age, patterns of social isolation and loneliness may differ by age group. Therefore, this research brief asks, How do patterns of social isolation and loneliness differ across age groups among community-dwelling older adults?
Document Type
Brief
Recommended Citation
Baek, J. & Halvorsen, C.J. (2026, February). How do social isolation and loneliness vary by age? [Engagement Across the Ages, Brief #2]. Harvey A. Friedman Center for Aging at Washington University in St. Louis. https://doi.org/10.7936/z0bc-mq49
Comments
Engagement Across the Ages - Brief #2