Loneliness in later life is not a uniform experience. While perceived loneliness is often associated with social dissatisfaction and emotional distress, some older adults report a preference for solitude, experiencing it as an adaptive and even enriching choice. This distinction raises important questions about how different forms of loneliness relate to depressive symptoms and overall well-being in aging populations. The presentation will address conceptual and clinical perspectives on perceived and preferred loneliness, highlighting their differential impact and relevance for understanding mental health in older adults.
Keywords: Loneliness, older adults, mental health