Increasing numbers of older Australians don't own their homes. Whether they are private renters or live in social housing can make a big difference to their risk of loneliness and anxiety.
By trying to tackle just the health impact of loneliness, scientists risk ignoring the underlying causes.
As part of a new strategy to combat loneliness GPs will be able to prescribe social activities. But is this ethical?
Half of Australians feel lonely for at least one day a week, while one in four feel lonely for three or more days. This can impact on sleep, heart health and levels of anxiety.
The condition is nothing short of a public health emergency.
Both young and old can feel like they don't belong. But loneliness is a social problem, with a social solution.
This month, we're talking risk. Three experts give their perspective on how long you might live, how to deal with loneliness – and how to step outside your comfort zone.
Older people are less lonely than we think, but more importantly loneliness is something they face all year round – not just at Christmas.
Residents may be right to fear for their lives.
Loneliness shortens our life spans and some studies suggest it's even more lethal than obesity. We are physiologically and psychologically primed for connection, so don't shrug off your loneliness.
Loneliness is a major cause of health problems, and many programs have aimed to alleviate it among the elderly. But it might be wise to treat loneliness at its roots, which for many is in childhood.