Which is worse, isolation or loneliness?

Isolation and loneliness can have detrimental effects on one's health. Studies have shown that those who experience loneliness or a sense of isolation are more susceptible to long-term health problems, cognitive deterioration, difficulty completing everyday activities, and premature mortality. However, isolation and loneliness are two different issues, and one may exist without the other. An observational Harvard research investigated whether one issue would be more serious than the other. It was published in SSM–Population Health in September 2023. 

Nearly 14,000 adults (50 years of age or older) whose health records were monitored for four years had their data examined by researchers. There was a correlation between poor health outcomes and both loneliness and isolation. However, social isolation—living alone or not seeing friends and family—was a better indicator of early mortality and physical deterioration. Mental health problems including sadness or the belief that life has no purpose were more likely to be associated with loneliness. In summary, loneliness and isolation are real and mutually reinforcing. By trying to maintain your social connections, you can combat them. And whether or not loneliness stems from isolation, it may be time to see your physician for advice.