Does online communication reduce loneliness among middle-aged and older adults living alone? Focusing on intergenerational communication.

Abstract

Aim: With rapid population aging, the number of single-person households with middle-aged and older adults is increasing. Social isolation among these populations is a serious problem and increases loneliness, affecting mental health. Therefore, we examined computer-mediated communication to reduce loneliness, and improve the mental health of middle-aged and older adults living alone. We hypothesized that increasing online communication (OC) frequency with intergenerational others reduces loneliness and improves mental health.

Methods: A web survey was carried out with 1900 single participants (1240 men) aged 40-79 years, who were registered with a research agency. OC frequency measured how often they communicated online via text with: (i) people of the same age, (ii) younger people (≥6 years younger), (iii) older people (≥6 years older), and (iv) people whose age was unknown. We also assessed their relationships with: (i) family/relatives, (ii) friends/neighbors, and (iii) others that they have never met, but communicate with online.

Results: Multigroup structural equation modeling with individuals from the 40-59 years and 60-79 years age groups showed that OC with intergenerational others, such as family and friends, significantly reduced loneliness and improved mental health. However, OC with others they have never met, but communicate with online, significantly increased loneliness, regardless of age.

Conclusions: OC is effective for maintaining real-world intergenerational relationships. Particularly, communication with intergenerational others can prevent loneliness and improve mental health among middle-aged and older adults living alone. Therefore, it is important to devise ways to build connections both online and offline. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2025; ••: ••-••.