Caring for a partner as a risk factor for loneliness
How caregiving influences loneliness
Caring for a partner can greatly increase the risk of loneliness and social isolation. According to the most recent census data 9% of over 75s in the UK are unpaid carers, with the highest percentage of unpaid carers (12%) living in Wales, in Bridgend, Caerphilly and Neath Port Talbot.
The demands of caregiving often take up a lot of time and energy, resulting in daily routines and social relationships being disrupted. Studies show that many caregivers sacrifice leisure activities and spend less time with friends or family, which can lead to withdrawing from social networks. As a result, the responsibility of caregiving can leave people feeling lonely and isolated.
Spousal caregiving and emotional loneliness
Becoming a spousal caregiver (caring for a long-term partner) has a profound effect not only on social relationships but also the bond between partners.
Research shows that caring for someone with dementia often leads to emotional loneliness, as communication and shared activities decline. The heavy physical, financial and emotional demands of caregiving reduce opportunities for social interaction and self-care, leaving caregivers vulnerable to isolation.
Many spousal caregivers also report that others don’t fully understand their situation, which can intensify withdrawal and deepen feelings of isolation.
Research shows that spousal caregivers are at higher risk of loneliness because of the stress and isolation they often experience, though more research is needed to fully understand whether this loneliness is short term or long term.
What helps reduce loneliness for caregivers
While caregiving increases the risk of loneliness and social isolation, maintaining a strong relationship with a partner and staying socially connected can help reduce this risk. Research suggests that the quality of relationships and opportunities for connection beyond caregiving are crucial factors in reducing loneliness.
It's honestly been a lifeline being able to see people in the flesh. Attending the group has pushed me to get out of my comfort zone. This has been important to me. I feel there has been a lasting benefit to both my physical and mental health. As I was looking after my late husband for some time before he passed away, I naturally became quite isolated. After he died, I felt useless. I was raw and worried I would become a burden.
– Re-engage older person involved in our Activity Group service
How we support unpaid carers
Our services can benefit older unpaid carers, providing opportunities to connect with others in social settings, or receive a phone call from a friendly volunteer once a week. If you’re an unpaid carer aged 75 and over and interested in joining one of our services, you can check out what we have on offer on our services page or contact us.
Want to find out more?
The research on this page has been drawn from work produced by our Research 100 students.
If you would like to explore the sources in detail, or learn more about loneliness and social isolation among older unpaid carers, please read the literature review written by Research 100 volunteer Precious Enwelum.
If you would like to explore the sources in detail, or learn more about caring for a partner as a risk factor for social isolation and loneliness, please read the summary written by Research 100 volunteer Harriet Tucker.