Lockdown Loneliness Prompts A Change Of Retirement Plans

Half (47%) of people who haven’t yet retired and experienced lockdown loneliness are now reconsidering their later life plans, according to new research from Audley Villages.

In March, when the first lockdown was introduced millions of people’s lifestyles changed overnight. Social events, family visits, or even just popping over to a friend’s house were all curtailed for months on end. Over a third (35%) of people in the UK say they experienced greater feelings of loneliness through the nationwide lockdown, with this particularly prominent amongst those aged 18-34 (46%).

This has left a lasting impact. 46% of people are worried they will experience loneliness in the future with fears of local and national lockdowns but also retirement weighing on the nation’s minds. As result many people are changing their plans for later life to actively avoid loneliness.

A quarter (26%) of people who have experienced loneliness and have not retired plan to stay busy with activities and social groups when they get older, 17% want to ensure they are part of a strong community, 15% will move closer to family and 12% closer to friends to have a strong support network close by.

Two-fifths (43%) say they will do anything they can to avoid loneliness in the future. Nearly a quarter of people (23%) agree that loneliness has impacted their physical wellbeing. Numerous studies have linked social isolation with higher risks of physical illness like high blood pressure, heart disease, and strokes.

Paul Morgan, managing director – operations, Audley Villages, said: “The pandemic has sadly given people a new appreciation of what it can feel like to be lonely. The key to minimising feelings of isolation is to create a strong support network. Friends, family and people that will check in, either virtually or in person, share hobbies or interests or join you for a walk can make a real difference both mentally and physically. We need to be creating housing options that support a sense of community as this is needed now more than ever. It has the potential to change the lives of people across the UK.”