The Impact of Loneliness on Health and Healthcare Costs in the UK

Loneliness is a significant public health concern in the United Kingdom, affecting a substantial portion of the population. Recent research indicates that four out of ten UK citizens experience loneliness at least some of the time. This social isolation has tangible health and economic consequences. A study published in the open-access journal PLOS One by Nia Morrish from the University of Exeter analyzed data from over 23,000 UK adults between 2021 and 2023, revealing that individuals who report feeling lonely frequently incur approximately £850 more annually in NHS healthcare costs compared to their non-lonely counterparts. These increased costs are primarily due to higher numbers of GP visits, outpatient appointments, and hospital stays among lonely individuals.

The research highlights that loneliness correlates strongly with mental distress, poorer mental well-being, and reduced physical and mental function. Notably, older adults tend to experience a greater rise in healthcare expenses associated with loneliness, suggesting a compounding effect on health with age. Interestingly, young adults aged 16–24 who often feel lonely actually generate higher healthcare costs than older groups, indicating a U-shaped relationship between age and costs related to loneliness.

This evidence underscores the importance of recognizing loneliness not only as a social issue but also as a critical factor impacting health and healthcare resources. The study urges healthcare providers and policymakers to develop targeted interventions to combat loneliness, especially among vulnerable groups like young adults and the elderly. Promoting social connections and community engagement could be key strategies in reducing both the health burden and economic costs linked to social isolation.

According to lead author Nia Morrish, understanding the broader health and economic impacts of loneliness can help shape effective public health strategies. Professor Antonieta Medina-Lara emphasizes that loneliness should be prioritized as a public health issue to mitigate its personal and societal costs, ultimately aiming to improve well-being and decrease the strain on healthcare systems.