Age UK responds to new research about loneliness, from the Office for National Statistics

The Office for National Statistics has today (Tuesday 10 April) published a new report titled, 'Loneliness: what characteristics and circumstances are associated with feeling lonely?'.

Responding to the findings in the report, Age UK's Charity Director, Caroline Abrahams, said:

'It's clear from this new analysis that loneliness can affect anyone, no matter how old they are, and it is important to note that loneliness is not a natural part of growing older. But there are certain people who are more at risk, including widowed older people who live alone and in poor health.

'Chronic loneliness is not only horrible to experience day in, day out, it can also have a devastating impact on an older person's mental and physical health. That's why we are committed to help tackle the loneliness that is blighting far too many later lives.

'The Government's recent appointment of a Minister to tackle loneliness who will develop a cross-cutting strategy on loneliness is an important step towards tackling this heart-breaking and widespread condition.

'But these new figures, showing that those who feel a weaker connection to their neighbourhood feel lonely more often, show us that we can all play a role in helping those around us. Having a friendly chat with an older person on the bus or in a shop, or offering to help an older neighbour with their shopping if the weather is bad, can do more good than most of us would ever guess.'