WASHINGTON ─ New AARP research released today finds that 40% of U.S. adults age 45 and older are lonely, an increase from 35% in 2018 and 2010. The report also shows that men are more likely to be lonely than women (42% vs. 37%) – a shift from 2018, when a roughly equal number of men (34%) and women (36%) reported being lonely.

While loneliness can strike at any age in older adulthood, it is most prevalent among people in their 40s and 50s. Over two in five (46%) of adults ages 45-59 say they are lonely, compared to 35% of people age 60 and older. This pattern of loneliness decreasing with age has remained consistent since AARP first conducted this research in 2010.

“In midlife, people are often juggling careers, children, and caring for aging parents while their social circles shrink,” said Debra Whitman, AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Public Policy Officer. “These pressures can increase stress and offer fewer chances to meaningfully connect with others.”

Key predictors of loneliness include smaller social networks, mental health challenges, and fewer friendships. Forty-five percent of people who are lonely report having fewer friends now than they did five years ago, compared to 29% of adults age 45-plus overall. Men are more likely than women to report having no close friends (17% vs 13%).

Nearly six in 10 adults age 45-plus (57%) say they rely on technology to stay connected with friends and family. Among this group, people have more close friends, on average, than those who do not rely on tech to stay connected. Additionally, they are more likely to have volunteered in the past year and be part of a local community group or club.   

While technology clearly enhances connections for some, it can deepen isolation for those who lack existing in-person networks. Nearly a quarter (24%) of lonely adults say technology leads to fewer close friendships. At the same time, 23% of lonely adults are interested in AI technologies for companionship and conversation, versus 15% of adults age 45-plus overall.

“This research underscores how vital it is to stay connected with family, friends, and your broader community. Solid social networks aren’t just nice to have, they’re essential for combating loneliness and supporting overall well-being,” said Heather Nawrocki, Vice President of Fun & Fulfillment at AARP. “Nurturing relationships is as critical to your health as eating well and exercising.”

Visit aarp.org/connect to find free local events and resources for building and maintaining social connections.  

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About AARP
AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the 125 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.