Retirement enhances social connections and reduces loneliness among older adults in Europe

A new study shows that retirement can significantly reduce loneliness among older adults in Europe, particularly benefiting women and those with higher education. Over time, retirees engage in new social activities, improving their social connections. The research analyzed data from a survey of older adults across 13 European countries. It found that while retirement does not immediately decrease loneliness, it leads to long-term improvements in social interactions and feelings of companionship. Women often feel lonelier shortly after retirement, especially if their partners are still working. However, this loneliness tends to decrease as they adapt to retirement and increase their social engagement over the following years.