ABSTRACT
Isolation and loneliness are thought to be common problems i n o ld age. B y comparison w i t h the young and the middle-aged, the o ld are known to be l iable to a loss of attachments and activities. But their vulnerabi l i ty may be exaggerated. T h e change i n their social and emotional experiences may not be as dramatic or as widespread as many people i n Western societies fear, and is therefore wor th investigating carefully.
