Loneliness Test for Seniors
The house used to be full of noise — conversations, laughter, the everyday sounds of a life shared with others. Now the silence has a weight to it. Maybe you lost a spouse and the evenings feel endless. Maybe your children moved far away and phone calls, however well-meaning, cannot fill the space. Maybe your friends have passed on one by one, and the world you built your life around has quietly disappeared. You're not being ungrateful or weak. You're experiencing something millions of older adults face, and it deserves attention.
Loneliness is not just an emotion — it is a health condition as serious as smoking or obesity. Research shows it increases the risk of heart disease, dementia, and depression. This free, private assessment uses the UCLA Loneliness Scale, a trusted tool used by researchers and healthcare providers worldwide. It is not a diagnosis, but it can help you understand what you're experiencing and find the right support.
Takes about 5 minutes. Completely private — nothing is stored or shared.
Why This Matters
25% socially isolated
Approximately one in four adults aged 65 and older is considered socially isolated. Up to 43% of older adults report feeling lonely regularly. — National Academies of Sciences
15 cigarettes a day
The health impact of chronic loneliness has been compared to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Social isolation increases the risk of premature death by 26%. — U.S. Surgeon General
50% higher dementia risk
Socially isolated older adults face a 50% increased risk of developing dementia and a 29% increased risk of heart disease. Connection is not optional — it is essential for health. — CDC
What To Expect
This assessment uses the UCLA Loneliness Scale, a widely researched tool that measures subjective feelings of loneliness and social isolation.
Retirement transition: Retirement removes a major source of daily social interaction, structure, and identity. Many people are unprepared for how isolating this transition can be, even when they looked forward to it. Building new routines and social connections takes intentional effort.
Loss of spouse and friends: Grief and loneliness often overlap but are distinct experiences. Losing a life partner changes every aspect of daily life. As friends pass away or become less mobile, the social network that once sustained you shrinks in ways that are difficult to rebuild.
Mobility limitations: Physical health challenges can make it harder to leave home, drive, or participate in activities you once enjoyed. Transportation barriers are one of the most common — and most solvable — contributors to senior isolation.
Technology and connection: Video calls, social media, and online communities can supplement in-person interaction, especially for those with limited mobility. Many libraries and senior centers offer free technology classes designed specifically for older adults.
Community programs: Senior centers, faith communities, volunteer programs, Meals on Wheels, and friendly visitor services all provide opportunities for meaningful connection. The Eldercare Locator (1-800-677-1116) can help you find local resources.
Your privacy: Everything happens in your browser. Nothing is stored, transmitted, or visible to anyone — not your family, not your doctor, not anyone.
Take the UCLA Loneliness Assessment
Answer each question based on how you've been feeling recently.
Last updated: March 16, 2026
A loneliness assessment adapted for older adults that measures social isolation and its impact on health and wellbeing.
Seniors or their family members who are concerned about social isolation and its health effects.
Loneliness in older adults is a serious health risk comparable to smoking — connection is medicine. This tool is for informational purposes only. Not a substitute for professional mental health treatment.
What Is the Senior Loneliness Screening?
How Is the Loneliness Test Scored?
What Do My Loneliness Screening Results Mean?
UCLA Loneliness Scale
A widely used measure of subjective loneliness and social isolation (Russell, 1996).
20 questions · ~5 minutes · Completely private · Version 3
Indicate how often each of the statements below is descriptive of you. There are no right or wrong answers.
How often do you feel that you are “in tune” with the people around you?
How often do you feel that you lack companionship?
How often do you feel that there is no one you can turn to?
How often do you feel alone?
How often do you feel part of a group of friends?
How often do you feel that you have a lot in common with the people around you?
How often do you feel that you are no longer close to anyone?
How often do you feel that your interests and ideas are not shared by those around you?
How often do you feel outgoing and friendly?
How often do you feel close to people?
How often do you feel left out?
How often do you feel that your relationships with others are not meaningful?
How often do you feel that no one really knows you well?
How often do you feel isolated from others?
How often do you feel you can find companionship when you want it?
How often do you feel that there are people who really understand you?
How often do you feel shy and withdrawn?
How often do you feel that people are around you but not with you?
How often do you feel that there are people you can talk to?
How often do you feel that there are people you can turn to?
Please answer all 20 questions to continue
Clinical Disclaimer
The UCLA Loneliness Scale is a screening tool for educational and self-reflection purposes. It is not a clinical assessment and cannot determine whether you have a mental health condition. An elevated score suggests significant loneliness that may benefit from professional support. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for mental health concerns. Reviewed by a Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor (CADC-II).
Crisis & Support Resources
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 · 24/7
SAMHSA National Helpline
1-800-662-4357 · 24/7
Your responses are scored entirely in your browser. Nothing is stored or transmitted.
Your Next Steps
Call the Eldercare Locator
1-800-677-1116 — a free service that connects older adults with local resources including senior centers, meal programs, transportation services, and social activities. They can help you find what's available in your community. Available Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET.
Explore AARP Community Connections
AARP offers community connection programs, volunteer opportunities, and local events designed to bring older adults together. Even starting with one weekly activity — a walking group, a book club, a volunteer shift — can make a meaningful difference.
Talk to your doctor
Mention loneliness at your next appointment. Healthcare providers increasingly recognize social isolation as a health risk factor and can screen for related depression, connect you with community resources, and help address mobility or transportation barriers that contribute to isolation.
Crisis Resources
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 — free, 24/7, confidential
- SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357 — free referrals, 24/7
- Eldercare Locator: 1-800-677-1116 — connects older adults with local services and support
This assessment tool is for educational purposes only — it is not a diagnosis. Only a qualified healthcare professional can assess loneliness-related health conditions. Your responses are processed entirely in your browser and are never stored or transmitted. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical advice.
Reviewed by a Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor (CADC-II).
Last reviewed: March 2026