Bereavement and loss as a risk factor for loneliness
How bereavement affects loneliness
Bereavement, especially the loss of a spouse or close family member, is one of the strongest triggers of emotional loneliness in later life. Loss of a major relationship is not something friends and family can completely compensate for, and can disrupt emotional closeness, shared routines, and even sense of identity.
Widowhood as a major risk factor
The UK office for National Statistics (ONS) has identified widowhood in later life as a major risk factor for ongoing loneliness, especially for those aged 75 and over.
ONS research shows that older people who lose a spouse are far more likely to feel lonely than those who are married or living alone.
Gender and caregiving roles also play a part, research shows that men who were carers often struggle more, as they not only lose their partner but also the routines and sense of purpose tied to caregiving.
Women are around twice as likely as men to outlive their partner due to their longer average life expectancies. Consequently, the average age of being widowed is around 73 for women and 77 for men.
The recent census (2021 in England and Wales; 2022 in Scotland) found 36% of people age 75 and over are widowed – approximately 2.3 million older people across England, Scotland, and Wales – making this a prevalent risk factor for loneliness in older people.
It has restored my interest in social activity, having been isolated in my recent past by my partners death. The groups are fantastic and offer just what I needed...it's possibly why I’m moving into my new accommodation as I wish to engage with others more.
– Re-engage older person involved in our Tea Party service
What people say about bereavement and loneliness
In 2025, we conducted a survey with 360 people across the UK and found around two thirds of respondents said they had experienced loneliness at some point in their lives, and illustrated the importance of spouse/partner relationships: the loss of a spouse or partner, either through their death or the breakdown of the relationship, was cited by 38% of people as the cause of their loneliness.
Support after loss
Bereavement groups often help people feel acknowledged, yet they don’t always ease grief or depression over time. Online peer-led groups have shown promise by reducing stress and offering accessible community support.
However, not only are many older people offline – but research shows that social support is more effective in addressing the deeper emotional challenges linked to bereavement when it is long term.
Re-engage has made a huge difference in my life. So many of my close friends have died. It has been great meeting up with likeminded people of all ages - including the carers who are all friendly and helpful. It’s also good to be able to get out in the evening without worrying about getting home.
– Re-engage older person involved in our Tea Party service
If you need support
If you or anyone you know is suffering from bereavement please contact Cruse Bereavement Support for help, support, information and to learn more about bereavement, grief, and loss.
Want to find out more?
The research on this page has been drawn from a literature review written by Research 100 volunteer Farhin Hoque. If you would like to explore the sources in detail, or learn more about bereavement and loss as a risk factor for social isolation and loneliness, please read the article.