ABSTRACT
This chapter deals with social isolation and loneliness in old age and their relation to various mental health outcomes. First, the terms are explained and a short summary of the causes of social isolation and loneliness in older individuals is given. In the following, research results from studies investigating social isolation and loneliness and their impact on the mental health of older adults all over the world are reported. With respect to various mental health outcomes, special focus lies on morbidity, mortality, affective, and cognitive disorders representing the most common health problems in old age. Subsequently, possible explanations for the identified associations are provided. Last but not least, recent findings with respect to the social isolation and loneliness of the older population during the COVID-19 pandemic as well as the role of new media and technology in this context are presented.
