Addressing Loneliness and Social Isolation in Older People

As the number of older people in the UK is increasing and people are living longer, loneliness and social isolation is also increasing. There is a growing body of evidence about the role older people’s housing plays in tackling loneliness and social isolation, but a lack of practical guidance for providers and those who work with older people on how to address it. This guide consolidates some of this evidence, highlights the positive role sheltered and retirement housing plays in reducing loneliness and social isolation amongst all older people in a community, and includes good practice guidance for those who support older people who are, or are at risk of, loneliness and social isolation in any setting. We have deliberately focused on providing practical advice and case studies which effectively demonstrate the role sheltered and retirement housing organisations play in preventing and addressing loneliness and social isolation.