Introduction: Loneliness is a negative emotional reaction to perceived isolation and has detrimental impacts on both physical and mental health among older adults. A complete understanding of the loneliness experienced by older adults is essential for the development of effective and patient-centered interventions.


Purpose: This study aimed to describe the loneliness experiences and coping strategies among community-dwelling older adults in China.


Method: One-on-one interviews were conducted among 28 community-dwelling older adults aged 60 to 84 years between April and June 2024. The interviews were audiotaped, literally transcribed, and then analyzed using thematic analysis, combining inductive and deductive methods.


Results: Both social and emotional types of loneliness were identified, with associated factors aligning closely with the perceived types of loneliness. Lack of social networks contributed to social loneliness, and unmet inner needs increased the feeling of emotional loneliness. Other factors associated with loneliness included lack of hobbies and personal arrangements, negative attitudes and personalities, declining physical health status, and financial challenges. Five patterns of daily routines were identified, which provided an outline of retirement life for Chinese older adults and the loneliness risks across different lifestyles. Cognitive strategies, including acceptance and endurance were used to mitigate loneliness. Behavioral activities were summarized to address loneliness. At the social level, friends, former colleagues, and old classmates were particularly suitable social networks for older adults to combat loneliness.


Conclusions: The study identifies that loneliness existed with complexity and heterogeneity among older adults. To address loneliness, it is critical to offer patient-centered programs that promote social connections and change cognitions.