Ageing better: what can we learn from loneliness?

The impact of loneliness on people's mental health and well-being is the focus of a forthcoming event comparing the experiences of people in England and Japan and looking to find ways to promote healthy ageing. 

ICLS researcher Dr Noriko Cable will be sharing findings from her research looking at what lessons the UK and Japan can learn from each other, whilst Dr Aparna Shankar from St George's University, London will discuss loneliness in older people living in England. 

Speaking ahead of the event, Noriko said: "Loneliness has been proven to have a profound impact upon physical and mental health.  An increase of mortality by 26 per cent and possible higher likelihood of clinical dementia and depression are just some of the potential repercussions. In ten years time in Japan, 6.5 million members of the population will 75 years old or older and this presents a real challenge for policy makers, health professionals and families."

The event, Ageing and mental health: Pictures of being old in the UK and Japan has been organised by the Daiwa Anglo-Japanese Foundation which encourages closer links between Britain and Japan.