Loneliness in later life: small steps that help

How common is it?

Loneliness can happen at any age. About 1 in 5 Australians say they often feel very lonely, based on long-running survey data reported by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.

Older people are more likely to feel isolated. Living alone, losing a partner or friends, retiring, and other big life changes can all play a part.

Why it matters

Loneliness is more than a sad feeling. It can raise the risk of depression and anxiety, poor sleep, and health problems such as heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke.

Research has linked loneliness and isolation with dying earlier, about as strongly as obesity is.

A major 2024 report on dementia, the Lancet Commission, lists social isolation and hearing loss among 14 risk factors that can be changed. Tackling these risks across life could help prevent or delay up to 45% of dementia cases. This does not mean loneliness causes dementia, but staying socially connected is one way to look after the brain.

Small steps families can take

• Keep in regular touch. A short call at the same time each week gives something to look forward to.
• Check hearing. Untreated hearing loss can lead to isolation and low mood. A GP or audiologist can help. Some people can get subsidised hearing services through the government Hearing Services Program (1800 500 726).
• Sort out transport. If getting out is the problem, help with transport may be available through My Aged Care.
• Find a group that fits. Clubs, classes, walking groups, faith or cultural groups, and library activities are all worth a look. Offer to go along the first time.
• Try a Men's Shed. There are more than 1,300 sheds around Australia where people share skills and company. Search at mensshed.org or call 1300 550 009.
• Volunteer. It brings purpose and new faces. Volunteering WA lists local roles: (08) 9482 4333.
• Visit a memory café. These relaxed catch-ups are for people living with dementia and their carers. Forget-Me-Not Memory Cafés run in Perth and regional WA, including at Australind Library.

Finding local activities in WA

LiveUp is a free, government-funded healthy ageing service. Its activity finder lists local exercise classes, social activities and groups. Its Navigators can help on 1800 951 971. Your local council and library are also good places to ask what is on nearby. Group activities, such as music and movement classes, are one more way to meet people.

Someone to talk to

If loneliness is affecting someone's mood, Beyond Blue counsellors are available 24/7 on 1300 22 4636. Talking to a GP can help too.

If someone is in crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14, or text 0477 13 11 14. If a life is in danger, call 000.