Older Adults in US Are Lonely

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In a recent USA Today op-ed, author Ken Stern discusses the growing problem of loneliness among U.S. adults aged 45 and older. According to an AARP survey, more than 40% of adults ages 45 to 49 report feeling severely lonely, with those in their 50s close behind. He notes that loneliness, especially among those over 50, is a growing concern due to its negative health consequences, including increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and dementia.

A new national study from AARP, released in December 2025, found that 40% of adults age 45+ are lonely, a material rise from the 35% that AARP found in both 2010 and 2018.

– Ken Stern in USA Today

Stern refers to the U.S. Surgeon General’s report, noting that loneliness is linked to serious health problems and can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Below are key highlights from his article:

  • Loneliness is public health crisis: Loneliness is a growing public health crisis, particularly among older adults, with over 50 million adults aged 45+ experiencing loneliness. Factors like gender, employment, income, location, and sexual orientation influence loneliness rates.
  • Growing Loneliness Among Older Americans: Older Americans are becoming less socially connected. Many are taking part less often in activities such as religious services, community groups, and volunteering.
  • The Impact of COVID-19: While COVID-19 may have worsened social disconnection, the decline began before the pandemic. There is also no clear evidence that social connection has rebounded since then.
  • Loneliness as a Public Health Issue: Unlike the U.S., countries such as the U.K., Japan, and Germany recognize elder loneliness as a public health crisis and have taken national-level action to address it.
  • Actions Taken by Other Countries: These countries have created dedicated leadership roles, such as Ministers of Loneliness, built networks of senior support offices, and launched programs like Silver Human Resources Centers to help older adults find purpose and social connection.
  • U.S. Response and Ongoing Challenges: Although the U.S. has acknowledged the loneliness problem, efforts so far have been limited and fragmented. For example, the Ambassador for Loneliness position has remained unfilled since 2024, and broader government action has been slow.

Stern’s makes it clear that loneliness among older Americans is not just a personal struggle but a growing public health concern. While other countries have taken clear, coordinated steps to address the issue, the U.S. response remains limited and fragmented. Without stronger leadership and meaningful action, millions of older adults may continue to face serious health and social consequences from prolonged isolation.

Acknowledgement: The summary section of this post was generated using AI writing tools as part of my AI Explorations process. For more information, please refer to the original articles listed below.

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