Loneliness in later life: gender-based evidence from longitudinal ageing study in India

Abstract

Background: Loneliness among the elderly a growing public health concern, particularly in ageing societies like India. Study examines gender differences in prevalence and determinants of loneliness among Indian elderly using data from the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI) Wave-1 (2017–2018).

Method: Study focuses individuals aged 60 and above (N=31,092). Loneliness measured using a single-item question from the CES-D-10 scale: "During past week, how often did you feel alone?" Responses dichotomized into lonely (often/most of the time) and not lonely (rarely/sometimes). Descriptive statistics, test of proportions used to examine loneliness prevalence, while multiple logistic regression models assessed its socio-economic and demographic determinants by gender

Result: Findings reveal 14.95% elderly respondents reported feeling lonely, higher prevalence among females (17.5%) than males (12.08%), gender difference statistically significant (p<0.001). Widowed elderly, those with no education, and individuals living alone more likely to report loneliness. Notably, loneliness highest among elderly lived alone (37%), without physical activity or reading habits. A U-shaped pattern observed with respect to economic status: poorest, richest elderly reported higher loneliness. Regression confirmed that elderly living alone, widowed, without regular reading habits, and those not engaged physical activity significantly more likely to report loneliness. Gender-stratified models indicated that females across categories residence, marital status, living arrangement more vulnerable to loneliness than males, though some gender differences not statistically significant in multivariate models.

Conclusion: The findings highlight urgent need for gender-sensitive interventions to reduce loneliness among India’s ageing population, particularly through social engagement, physical activity, and inclusive support systems.