New studies have measured the connection between loneliness and dementia by examining data from over 600,000 individuals globally. This extensive meta-analysis of 21 longitudinal studies revealed that feelings of loneliness heighten the risk of developing dementia by 31%.
A recent study led by faculty members at the Florida State University College of Medicine has quantitatively assessed the link between loneliness and dementia, making it the largest research of its kind.
The analysis of 21 longitudinal studies demonstrated that experiencing loneliness is associated with a 31% increased risk of developing dementia. This work was published in Nature Mental Health.
Assistant Professor Martina Luchetti, who spearheaded the research, stated, “These findings align with the growing evidence indicating that loneliness is related to poor health. Dementia exists on a spectrum, with neurological changes beginning many years before the clinical symptoms emerge. It is vital to continue examining the interplay between loneliness and various cognitive outcomes or symptoms throughout this spectrum. Loneliness—defined as a dissatisfaction with social connections—can affect cognitive functioning and day-to-day life.”
The findings indicated that loneliness stands out as a significant risk factor for cognitive decline, regardless of age or gender. It also established connections between loneliness and specific types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, as well as cognitive challenges that may arise before a formal diagnosis.
The initiative was inspired by the World Health Organization and the U.S. Surgeon General, who labeled loneliness as a public health emergency following the COVID-19 pandemic and the social restrictions that accompanied it.
“Interest in the health implications of loneliness has surged,” Luchetti noted. “Understanding the reasons and circumstances under which loneliness elevates the risk for dementia in later life is crucial.”
While the study included participants from various parts of the world, it predominantly drew data from individuals in wealthier Western cultures. Luchetti emphasized the need for future research to incorporate data from a broader range of countries.
“We are witnessing an increase in dementia cases in lower-income nations,” she remarked. “It is essential that upcoming studies collect more data from these regions to assess the impact of loneliness in different national and cultural settings.”
The results of this meta-analysis offer valuable insights that can inform upcoming prevention and intervention strategies.
“With solid evidence linking loneliness and dementia risk, it is crucial to pinpoint the sources of loneliness to help prevent or manage it and support the cognitive health and well-being of older adults,” Luchetti added.
This research received funding from the National Institute on Aging, part of the National Institutes of Health.
Luchetti is an assistant professor in the Department of Behavioral Sciences and Social Medicine. Other FSU co-authors include Damaris Aschwanden, a post-doctoral researcher; Amanda Sesker, a post-doctoral scholar; Professor Antonio Terracciano, and Professor Angelina Sutin from the Department of Behavioral Science and Social Medicine at the FSU College of Medicine. Researchers from Wenzhou Medical University, the University of Limerick, and the University of Montpellier also contributed to the study.
