Prevention and Intervention

Many individuals, including researchers, professionals, and policymakers, have been focused on finding ways to prevent loneliness and minimize its consequences. Across Europe, there are initiatives aimed at strengthening social networks, increasing mutual support among neighbours, and improving interpersonal relationships. In fact, “most obvious way of overcoming loneliness is to establish or improve social relationships” (Perlman & Peplau, 1981, p. 53). Studies also highlight that access to leisure, recreational, and cultural opportunities, as well as a strong sense of belonging to the community, are significant factors in mitigating loneliness (Smale et al., 2022).

In the Netherlands, for instance, the Buurtcirkel Neighbourhood Circles is a program that connects small groups of 9–12 residents from the same neighbourhood, each living independently, to support one another. Group members assist with tasks such as attending appointments or grocery shopping and there is a neighbourhood coach that provides professional guidance to the group. The initiative is backed by local authorities, non-profits, and charitable organizations.

In Poland, the Active Senior Centre, managed by Association for Supporting Activities of Seniors “AS”, provides a meaningful space where older adults can explore their passions, talents, and purpose while engaging with others who value human connection. It operates Monday to Friday as a gathering place for those seeking companionship and community. All activities are free for members, who also receive a complimentary meal served by the Association’s restaurant, “Grandma Krysia’s Pots”. The main activities offered include senior sewing room, handicraft workshop, culinary workshop and variety corner which is a space for diverse activities and social interaction. The Association funds its operations through social enterprise activities, including three restaurants – one in Mława and two in Płock – operating under the “Grandma Krysia’s Pots” brand.

In Portugal, the pioneering Radar Project aims to identify individuals aged 65 and older living in Lisbon and build community-based systems to enhance social cohesion. By georeferencing individuals, along with their expectations and potential, the project seeks to plan coordinated and sustainable interventions tailored to each situation. Its ultimate goal is to improve quality of life and ensure the delivery of high-quality services. The initiative involves identifying, assessing, and referring cases, followed by continuous monitoring and support for each individual. As part of the “Lisbon, a Lively City for All Ages” [Lisboa, Cidade COM VIDA Para Todas as Idades] program, the project prioritizes creating neighbourhoods that are more supportive, communicative, and attentive to the needs of residents aged 65+ who are at risk of isolation or unwanted loneliness. This effort relies on the collaboration of an extensive network of partners and services available to the population, including the Lisbon City Council, Holy House of Mercy, organizations providing support to older residents, pharmacies, local businesses, companies, and the general population.

In Italy, the ANCeSCAO – A.P.S. (Associazione Nazionale Centri Sociali, Comitati Anziani e Orti) is a democratic, non-partisan, and non-profit association dedicated to helping older adults overcome the loneliness and marginalization often associated with ageing. Currently, there are over 1 300 centres spread across 54 provinces in Italy, serving as hubs for various activities and initiatives driven entirely by older adults themselves. A defining feature of these centres is their self-management model and the complete reliance on volunteerism from their members. This grassroots approach empowers older adults to take an active role in their communities, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose while combating isolation.

The AISSS (Integrated Social and Healthcare Services for Unwanted Loneliness) project, developed in the Alt Pirineu-Aran region of Catalonia, Spain, aims to tackle unwanted loneliness among older adults by combining social and healthcare data. It builds on the existing Vincles program by integrating 10 new health-related indicators, which significantly improve the detection of individuals at high risk of loneliness. The initiative encourages collaboration between healthcare professionals and social services, allowing for more coordinated and effective responses. A pilot in Montferrer i Castellbò showed promising results, with better identification and support for isolated individuals. Overall, AISSS offers a data-driven, community-based approach to addressing loneliness in a more holistic and proactive way.

Finally, all partners, except for Poland, are part of the Cycling Without Age movement. This initiative is now present in approximately 40 countries worldwide, including Brazil, the USA, and New Zealand, among others. Supported by dedicated volunteers, the program offers older adults with limited mobility the chance to enjoy 30-minute or longer rides in specially adapted vehicles. What sets this initiative apart is its innovative approach: it gives older adults with physical limitations the opportunity to experience a unique tour of their local area. The project is a true community-focused solution, bringing the experience directly to people in their neighbourhoods and within the natural environment of their social networks.

Understanding the diverse factors and determinants of loneliness is essential for adopting an intersectoral approach that integrates health, social services, and community resources. Such an approach addresses the multifaceted nature of loneliness while creating environments that facilitate meaningful social interactions and support healthy ageing practices among older adults (Ogrin et al., 2021).