Ethnicity as a risk factor for loneliness

How ethnicity influences loneliness

There is limited research on loneliness among older individuals in minority communities in the United Kingdom. But available studies indicate loneliness is more prevalent in minority groups and is shaped by a range of complex social and structural factors. Two major factors are structural disadvantage such as barriers built into society that make life harder for some people, and having a limited social network.

The impact of lifeline inequalities

Research shows that loneliness among older people from minority backgrounds isn’t just about having fewer social connections, it’s deeply influenced by long-standing inequalities.

Challenges like migration, racial discrimination, limited job opportunities, and barriers to education can build up over time, making individuals more vulnerable to feeling isolated in later life.

Racism plays a role at many levels, including individual experiences of how institutions and society operate, often making it harder for support systems to work effectively, leaving people feeling disconnected.

While ethnicity itself is not a reliable predictor of loneliness, many minority groups face greater exposure to issues such as financial hardship and health inequalities, which are known to increase the risk of loneliness.

Social networks and cultural connection

Meaningful, accessible social connections play a large role in reducing loneliness. Research shows older Black and Asian adults are more likely than their White counterparts to have smaller circles of friends, who may also live far away, leaving them vulnerable to social isolation.

Research also shows loneliness interventions tend to work better when they reflect people’s cultural backgrounds - like community groups that bring together people with shared experiences.

How we are responding

We launched the Oldham South Asian Activity Group as a pilot in collaboration with Oak Community Development, following the identification of a gap in local provision and resources for the South Asian community.

Since its launch, we have welcomed four multi-lingual volunteers, and five Activity Group sessions have taken place, with five older people regularly attending. Activities have included dancing, singing, prayer, board games, and poetry.

Looking ahead

As the UK’s older population becomes increasingly diverse, future research and policy should prioritise strategies that genuinely reflect the needs of older people from minority backgrounds.

We are dedicated to amplifying the voices of all older people through our policy work.