The complexity of loneliness

Acta Biomed. 2018 Jun 7;89(2):302-314. doi: 10.23750/abm.v89i2.7404.

Abstract

Loneliness is a prevalent and global problem for adult populations, and a number of different studies have linked it to multiple chronic conditions, including: heart disease, lung disease, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, atherosclerosis, stroke, and metabolic disorders, such as obesity and metabolic disease. Is a major predictor of psychological problems, such as depression, psychological stress, and anxiety. Loneliness is linked to overall morbidity and mortality in adult populations. But limited interventions have demonstrated long-term effectiveness in reducing loneliness in adults with these same chronic conditions. Our research of the extant literature addresses the following question: What evidence exists regarding the relationships between loneliness and health? We focus on recent findings with respect to the links between loneliness and health.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aging / physiology
  • Aging / psychology*
  • Health Services for the Aged
  • Humans
  • Loneliness*
  • Social Class
  • Social Determinants of Health
  • Social Environment
  • Social Isolation
  • Social Support