Older Adults and Loneliness: Resources and Support Strategies

As people get older, staying connected can become unexpectedly difficult. Whether it's due to family members relocating, friends growing apart, health issues, or changes in routine that make socializing harder, feelings of loneliness can quickly settle in. However, loneliness and isolation can do more harm than you might expect. While some people assume loneliness mainly raises the risk of mental health concerns like depression, research shows it can also increase the likelihood of physical conditions such as high blood pressure and heart disease.1 These risks are especially high for older adults who have lost a spouse or partner, lack transportation, or are separated from friends or family.2

But loneliness isn’t inevitable; there are countless resources available that can help. And studies show that these interventions can be quite effective, helping participants maintain their well-being and even improving cognitive function.3

In this guide, we’ll cover what you need to know about loneliness in older adults and offer a collection of helpful resources, including organizations, online communities, volunteer opportunities, and more. (We’ve also included some useful resources for caregivers.)

According to a 2020 report from Harvard University’s Joint Center for Housing Studies, the number of people in their 80s and 90s living alone will “dramatically increase” over the next 20 years.6 However, while living alone doesn’t necessarily mean someone is lonely, the time a person spends alone can be used to measure social isolation.7 According to the Pew Research Center, older adults who live alone spend, on average, about 10.5 hours alone every day — nearly twice as long as those who live with a spouse, partner, or roommate.8

Older women, in particular, spend more time alone than older men due to factors like longer life expectancies and higher rates of widowhood.8 But, on the other hand, older women are more likely to be involved in activities such as volunteering, which can help prevent or alleviate feelings of loneliness or isolation.9

In 2023, the University of Michigan published its findings from a poll of U.S. adults aged 50-80, which asked questions about the subjects’ perceived feelings of loneliness. These polls took place from October 2018 to January 2023. Perhaps unsurprisingly, feelings of loneliness peaked in June 2020 — right around the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Interestingly, though, the results indicate that feelings of social isolation never quite returned to pre-pandemic levels (at least as of the January 2023 findings). This could be because, as noted in the published findings, there are “much higher rates [of loneliness] in those with mental or physical health challenges or disabilities.”10

Finally, in July 2025, a systematic review and meta-analysis on loneliness in older adults was published in Humanities and Social Sciences Communications. The authors note that “the highest prevalence of loneliness among older adults is observed in North America, with a prevalence rate of 30.5%” compared to the global average of 27.6%. If we assume that the U.S. has about the same proportion of lonely older adults as North America, then that’d be around 17.6 million older Americans who feel socially isolated.11

All of this to say, loneliness is fairly common among older adults.

Though older adults aren’t the only population at risk for social isolation, they’re more likely to experience it due to many common changes that can occur later in life. These include, but aren’t limited to:12 13

• Hearing loss
• Vision loss
• Memory or cognitive concerns
• Disability or illness
• Mobility issues
• Difficulty driving or finding transportation
• Discrimination (ageism)
• Loss of a spouse or partner
• Family relocating or becoming busy
• Friends also dealing with similar difficulties or passing away
• Retirement
• Financial hurdles

Ultimately, social isolation is a complex issue. A good example of these complexities is provided on Canada's government website dedicated to supporting older adults. Here’s a condensed excerpt:14

“Hilda Wren is a sociable 83-year-old retired single woman who has lived in the same neighbourhood for many years. She has been active on community boards, in a bridge club, and in her local place of worship. Over time, losing her eyesight has made it hard for her to continue with her usual activities, but she only gave them up when she surrendered her driver’s licence. Hilda adjusted to these changes by joining a local seniors’ centre, which she could get to by bus. As there was no bus service to her place of worship, friends picked her up.

Eventually, however, Hilda’s friends’ circumstances changed due to their own health problems, and they were no longer able to regularly attend religious services themselves. She gave up bridge as her vision worsened, and arthritis in her knees has made it hard to walk. Gradually, Hilda has become almost completely housebound. … Some days it hardly seems worthwhile getting out of bed, and it is hard to make herself eat properly or to exercise.”

Although this is only an example, it reflects reality for millions of people and illustrates how small changes can accumulate to create a significant impact. In the example case, something as simple as Hilda having access to reliable transportation would have made a big difference.

As mentioned earlier in this guide, loneliness and social isolation can lead to higher risks for a variety of physical and mental health conditions in older adults. These include, but aren’t limited to:2 15

According to researchers, chronic loneliness can activate “a biological defense mechanism.” For example, it may promote inflammation and increase the risk of chronic diseases, or weaken immune cells, making individuals more vulnerable to infectious diseases.2

Not every older adult will exhibit the same signs and symptoms of loneliness or social isolation; however, there are a few common indicators to watch for, including the following:12 16

• Sleep difficulties (e.g., insomnia, nonrestorative sleep, early-morning awakening, etc.)17 18
• No longer exercising or participating in previously enjoyed activities
• Drinking more alcohol than normal
• Starting to smoke or smoking more
• Impulsive shopping
• Eating noticeably more or less
• Behavior changes (e.g., mood swings, irritability, etc.)
• Neglecting personal care

You may already recognize some of these signs, especially if you’re familiar with the symptoms of depression.19 While loneliness can certainly cause depression — and isolating oneself could be a sign of depression — one doesn’t necessarily guarantee the other.20 If you think you might have depression, it’s worth talking to your doctor. (And the same recommendation goes for caretakers who suspect their older loved one may be depressed.)

The National Institute on Aging explains that those “who engage in meaningful, productive activities they enjoy with others feel a sense of purpose and tend to live longer.” This could mean volunteering at an animal shelter, trying a new hobby (or taking up an old one again), attending a class online, finding a faith-based organization, joining a walking group, or anything else you find joy in. Along the way, you’ll likely meet new people with similar interests, which can help you form new connections and friendships, whether in-person or online.

If you’re looking to reconnect with family and friends, but distance or health issues make that difficult, then it could be worth joining social media, having regular video chats or phone calls, keeping in touch over email, or even sending a letter.

No matter how you choose to enrich your social life, combating loneliness can also help you prevent chronic physical and mental illness — and live a longer, happier life along the way.12

In the following sections, you’ll find dozens of resources that can help you get started in forming new relationships, strengthening your current ones, or enriching your social life with new hobbies or activities.

Support hotlines

Whether you’re in immediate distress or simply need a caring voice to talk to, these confidential services are available to listen and help.

• The Friendship Line: A 24/7 toll-free hotline for “older adults and caregivers feeling isolated, overwhelmed, or alone.” Can be accessed online or by calling 888-670-1360 (other languages — Cantonese, Korean, Spanish, Mandarin, Tagalog, Vietnamese, and Russian — have different phone numbers that can be found on the website).
• National Elder Fraud Hotline: Help for victims of elder fraud (e.g., romance scams); call 833-372-8311. Available Monday-Friday from 10am-6pm Eastern time.
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Available 24/7 online or over the phone in English or Spanish; call or text 988 for support.
• Veterans Crisis Line: Available 24/7 online or via phone. Dial 988 and press 1 or text 838255 for help.
• Crisis Text Line: Available 24/7; text HOME to 741741.

Organizations

These trusted nonprofits and community groups offer programs, services, and social opportunities designed to support older adults.

• Pets for the Elderly (PFE): A charity organization that partners with rescue shelters across America to “provide companionship to senior individuals through pet ownership.”
• Meals on Wheels: Meal delivery and support services for adults 60+ with mobility challenges.
• AARP: A well-known nonprofit dedicated to supporting older adults. Membership includes access to a range of programs and services.
• Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders (SAGE): Resources and services for LGBTQIA+ older adults.
• The Red Hat Society: A membership society for women that places “a strong emphasis on the positive aspects of life.” Online and offline meetings are available, including access to social media groups.
• SilverSneakers: Online and in-person fitness classes for older adults. Certain Medicare plans include a free membership.

Housing-related resources

Shared or community-focused living arrangements can be a powerful antidote to isolation; these services help connect you with supportive housing options.

• The Cohousing Association of the United States: Information on cohousing in “close-knit communities for people 55+” (multi-generational communities are also available).
• Homeshare Online: Formerly known as “Silvernest,” this nonprofit organization helps older adults across the U.S. find suitable roommates. Listing your own home is free, but background checks and other vetting tools require the Plus plan (about $25/month).
• Nesterly: A service similar to Homeshare Online, but with a larger focus on intergenerational roommates. (Limited availability; primarily offered in Northeastern and New England cities/counties with larger populations.)
• Village to Village Network: Information on organizations — “villages” — formed through older adult neighbors caring for each other.

Online communities

These platforms offer ways to learn, socialize, and meet others online — especially helpful when mobility or distance makes in-person activities difficult.

• Senior Planet: From AARP, this social media platform is designed for individuals aged 60 and older. Resources, information on technology developments, online classes, and more are available.
• Televeda: Live and interactive weekly online classes and workshops for older adults. Some options include bingo, Zumba Gold exercise classes, brain games, and painting courses.

Volunteering

If you’re looking for ways to stay active, give back, or meet new people, these organizations can help you find meaningful volunteer opportunities.

• Create the Good: An AARP-hosted database of various in-person and online volunteering opportunities.
• Volunteer with AARP: Volunteering opportunities for AARP members or those who wish to assist members.
• Volunteer.gov: A U.S. government website dedicated to volunteer work with the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the National Park Service, and other related departments.
• Idealist: A website that can help you find in-person, online, and hybrid volunteer opportunities in your area. You can also search listings for jobs or internships with local nonprofit organizations.

Intergenerational programs

These programs bring older and younger generations together through shared activities, learning, and community connection.

• Generations United: An online database of over 800 intergenerational programs across the U.S.
• DOROT programs: In-person, online, and over-the-phone programs for older adults. Along with intergenerational ones, other programs are also offered, including art, technology, health, “make a friend,” volunteering, and more. (Some in-person opportunities are only available in New York state.)
• Penn State Intergenerational Program: Online resources and ideas for building intergenerational relationships.

Miscellaneous resources

Here are additional guides and articles that offer practical ideas for building connections, strengthening relationships, and staying socially engaged.

• Solo aging: Who can you rely on?
• 3 ways to build brain-boosting social connections
• The buddy system: How to make new friendships and maintain old ones

If you’re searching for information on how to help an older adult in your life prevent or combat loneliness, you likely already know it’s not always as simple as “just spend time with them.” While this could certainly be an ideal solution, it isn’t possible for everyone. Perhaps you live far away from your loved one, have a busy schedule, are dealing with health issues or disability, or are facing other challenges that make it hard to spend more time together.

Regardless of the reasons, the following resources may help — or they could simply provide you with some inspiration on the next steps to take.

Tips and useful information

These guides offer practical advice for supporting an older adult’s well-being, staying connected, and navigating common caregiving challenges.

• National Institute on Aging: Caregiver’s Handbook (PDF download available)
• What Is Long-Distance Caregiving?
• Does an Older Adult in Your Life Need Help?
• Home sweet home: Supporting a loved one aging in place
• Caregivers: Tips to help your loved one stay socially active
• Adult day care can benefit older adults and their caregivers
• What to do when your aging parents need more care than you can provide

Organizations and other online resources

These organizations provide services, support networks, and tools that can help you care for an older adult more effectively — whether you need local assistance, education, or ongoing guidance.

• How to Choose a Medical Alert or Monitoring System: An AARP guide to choosing the right medical alert system to suit your loved one’s needs.
• Meals on Wheels online directory: Find meal providers and services for older adults in your area. You can refer or apply for a loved one 60 or older with mobility challenges.
• Family Caregiver Alliance: A collection of resources to support caregivers, including online and in-person support groups, events, classes, ways to care for yourself while taking care of someone else, and more.
• Caregiver Action Network: Resources for caregivers with a focus on how to better support older adults with certain physical or mental health concerns (e.g., Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, stroke, TBI, cancer, etc).
• ARCH National Respite Network: A directory of respite care and related programs across the U.S.
• Visiting Angels: In-home living assistance services for older adults.
• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Eldercare Locator: Information on services for older adults and their families (staff can also be contacted by phone call or text at 1-800-677-1116).
• National Council on Aging (NCOA) Caregiver Support: A collection of resources (e.g., mental health resources, financial planning tips, etc.) for caregivers of older adults.
• NCOA BenefitsCheckUp: A resource to help older adults or their loved ones find “programs that can help [older adults] afford daily expenses, live healthy, and stay independent.” Options include assistance with aging in place, housing, long-term care, transportation, and more.