Long term health conditions or disability as a risk factor for loneliness

How health conditions influence loneliness

As we age, long-term health conditions become more common, and many people face changes in health, mobility, and social connections. Many older adults live with long-term health conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, heart problems, and chronic pain which can make it harder to go out, keep up with hobbies, and stay socially connected.

How loneliness affects health

Loneliness affects us in many ways. It can impact mental and physical health. Studies have shown that loneliness is associated with poor immune function, higher risk of heart disease and stroke, and an increased decline in cognitive abilities (such as memory and thinking skills).

People living with multiple long-term health conditions are especially vulnerable - research across Europe, India, and North America shows that those with two or more health conditions are more likely to feel lonely compared with healthier peers.

Why long-term conditions increase loneliness

The U.S. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identified chronic disease, long-term disability, and physical challenge as circumstances that increase a person’s likelihood of experiencing loneliness or social isolation.

For many, these conditions restrict mobility, disrupting participation in major life events and limiting engagement in social or community activities social activities, hindering the formation or maintenance of meaningful social connections - intensifying disconnection and making recovery or adaptation even more challenging.

As a result, individuals with long-term conditions face heightened vulnerability to both emotional and social isolation, reinforcing a cycle in which poor health and loneliness exacerbate each other, creating a bidirectional relationship that increases overall health decline.

Disability and loneliness

Disability in the UK is closely associated with increased loneliness, a pattern that becomes more pronounced with age. Although the risk is significant, evidence indicates that a wide range of activities - from community-based activities and animal companionship to counselling and digital communication tools - can help reduce feelings of isolation.

How we support people with long-term conditions

Our annual survey (2025) found 87% of Re-engage beneficiaries have a long-term health condition, and for 74% of them, this condition is physical.

Research shows community‑based options such as social clubs, befriending services and Activity Groups also contribute positively. We run these services throughout the UK with transportation options provided for in-person groups, and telephone befriending for those who are housebound.

Building and maintaining connections is key to supporting health and wellbeing throughout later life – if you would like to get involved in supporting these connections for older people and tackling loneliness, please investigate our volunteer roles.