Worldwide Changes in Loneliness Among Older Adults From 1997 to 2025: A Cross-Temporal Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review.

Objectives

Loneliness is a critical psychosocial factor associated with mental health and wellbeing in later life. Although prior research has documented its prevalence, less is known about how loneliness has changed over time at a global level or how broader societal conditions shape these trends. This study examined long-term changes in loneliness among older adults and their associations with macro-level indicators.

Methods

A systematic search of 10 databases identified 125 studies (N = 107,304) published between 1997 and 2025. Cross-temporal meta-analysis was conducted to assess trends in loneliness and its associations with societal indicators.

Results

Overall loneliness among older adults showed a modest decline over time (d = -0.331), with significant regional variation. Loneliness decreased in Asia and North America but increased in Europe, where levels were highest. No significant overall gender differences were observed, although women showed a slightly greater decline. Higher GDP per capita, life expectancy, and old-age dependency ratio were associated with lower loneliness, whereas unemployment was associated with higher loneliness. The influence of female labor force participation changed over time.

Discussion

Over the past three decades, loneliness among older adults has generally improved, though regional and gender disparities persist in this trend, which remains closely linked to multiple macro-level social indicators. Future policy formulation must account for regional variations and the long-term effects of social change, promoting more targeted psychological support systems for older adults to effectively enhance their mental wellbeing and quality of life.