Living far from loved ones may worsen mental health in elderly, says psychologist
New Delhi: Loneliness among older adults in India is emerging as a serious mental health concern, but experts say the issue goes beyond living alone. According to the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI), nearly 14.9 per cent of elderly Indians feel socially disconnected, while around 29-35 per cent experience symptoms of depression.
Mental health professionals believe that regular contact with family, friends and the wider community plays a crucial role in emotional well-being during later life. As ageing often brings retirement, health challenges and changes in social roles, reduced interaction with familiar people can gradually increase the risk of depression and cognitive decline.
Clinical psychologists emphasise that maintaining strong social ties and easy access to healthcare and community support should be considered an important part of healthy ageing, alongside medical care and lifestyle measures.
“Distance from known support systems and less social contact significantly influences mental health later in life. Those older individuals who remain in regular contact with their families, friends, and communities enjoy good mental health,” said Archana Sharma, Clinical Psychologist at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, Delhi.
Why social connection matters
Experts explain that ageing often brings retirement, reduced mobility and lifestyle changes, making social relationships increasingly important for maintaining emotional health.
According to Sharma, emotional well-being is closely linked to the environment in which older adults live.
“The condition of elderly individuals is closely associated with both emotional and physical infrastructure.”
She added, “Proximity to healthcare, family, and familiar social spaces matters more than we’ve traditionally emphasised in ageing discourse.”
Mental health professionals say regular interaction with family members, neighbours, friends and community groups can help reduce feelings of isolation while supporting emotional resilience and cognitive health.
Isolation may increase depression risk
Clinical evidence increasingly suggests that limited social contact can contribute to depression and faster cognitive decline in older adults.
The Sankala Foundation’s 2025 report, conducted with NITI Aayog, found that 18.7 per cent of elderly women and 5.1 per cent of elderly men live alone. Experts note that while living alone does not automatically lead to poor mental health, prolonged isolation and weak support systems can increase vulnerability.
Sharma stressed that staying connected with loved ones and the community can make a meaningful difference.
“Those who remain in contact with their communities experience better mental health outcomes.”
She further said, “This isn’t about amenities or comfort. It’s about whether the environment enables or prevents sustained human connection.”
Healthy ageing needs emotional support
Mental health experts believe that planning for healthy ageing should include more than healthcare and financial security. Easy access to family, trusted healthcare providers and familiar social circles can help older adults maintain emotional well-being and reduce the risk of depression.
They also encourage families to prioritise regular communication and meaningful social engagement, even when living separately, as consistent human connection remains one of the strongest protective factors for mental health in later life.