A significant proportion of Malaysians over 40 are lonely. But there are things you can do to reduce your risk of loneliness. A notable number of middle-aged and older Malaysians are grappling with the pangs of loneliness, a situation more severe for women and individuals of Indian ethnicity, according to recent research.

The data stems from the Malaysia Ageing and Retirement Survey, conducted between 2020 and 2022. This comprehensive nationwide study illuminates the prevalence of loneliness and its associated factors among Malaysians aged 40 and above.

Loneliness, an emotional discomfort arising from feelings of emptiness and being unwanted, has surged as a critical global public health issue, especially post-Covid-19 pandemic. Its ramifications on physical and mental health, quality of life, and longevity are profound, heightening risks of anxiety, depression, and premature death.

The survey amassed data on various facets of respondents’ lives, including their health, healthcare service usage, cognition, and psychosocial well-being or quality of life. A pivotal measure was self-reported loneliness over the six months preceding data collection.

Involving over 4,000 respondents, the study revealed that loneliness is alarmingly prevalent among middle-aged and older Malaysians, affecting 24 per cent of respondents. It is more pronounced among women (28 per cent) compared to men (19 per cent).

The study also pinpointed strong correlations between loneliness and factors such as living alone (50 per cent), lacking social support (52 per cent without a loving family), and health issues (35 per cent with limiting diseases).

Survey respondents who were female or of Indian ethnicity experienced higher rates of loneliness compared to those who were male or Malay and Bumiputera (ethnic Malays and other indigenous ethnic groups in Peninsular and East Malaysia) or other races. This disparity could be attributed to female respondents being more likely to be without a spouse than male respondents—the survey data showed 45 per cent of female respondents aged 60 or older were either widowed, divorced, or separated compared to only 12 per cent of male respondents aged 60 or older—resulting in higher rates of loneliness due to lack of companionship.

Men are generally more active in the labour market than women, providing them with more opportunities to engage in social events, possibly contributing to their lower rates of loneliness. In this study, Indian and indigenous Sabah and Sarawak individuals were more susceptible to loneliness than Chinese or Malays, possibly due to different cultural norms.

Cultural traditions can significantly influence social connection. For instance, some cultures emphasise large, extended families or close-knit communities, fostering a stronger sense of belonging. Thus, promoting healthy living habits across all communities is crucial. This includes mindful eating habits, regular exercise like walking or gardening, and participation in community or neighbourhood activities. Engaging in these activities not only enhances physical health but also combats feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Living alone or solely with a spouse led to a higher risk of loneliness compared to living with family members. Respondents experiencing feelings of isolation were four times more likely to experience loneliness than those without such feelings.

Respondents with health conditions that limited their daily activities or who had difficulties performing routine personal care tasks like eating and cleaning themselves were also more likely to experience higher levels of loneliness compared to healthier individuals. Being married and having a loving family or strong support system significantly reduced the likelihood of loneliness.

The study underscores the strong link between social isolation and loneliness, highlighting the importance of meaningful social relationships and active social participation. Making a conscious effort to converse with neighbours and share information through residents’ association groups can foster such connections.

Living with a loving family, nurturing friendships, and participating in social activities offer companionship and emotional support. Being involved in the community and socialising help people feel they belong and reduce loneliness. Staying active and healthy can prevent lifestyle diseases and cognitive decline.

Meaningful connections can ease loneliness, even for those with chronic conditions. This allows individuals to take part in and contribute to family and community activities, providing a more meaningful life and reducing feelings of isolation. Promoting high-quality social engagements at the community level is essential to combat loneliness. Reconnecting with old classmates on WhatsApp or engaging with special interest groups online, like neighbourhood associations or religious communities, can help people stay connected and foster a sense of belonging.

While the study focused on middle-aged and older adults, it highlighted the need for specific interventions across different age groups and demographics to address the varying impacts of loneliness.

By recognising and addressing the factors associated with loneliness, Malaysia can implement effective strategies and policies to improve the well-being of its population, particularly as it ages, and mitigate the adverse effects of this growing public health issue.