Retiring Abroad Increases Risk of Social Loneliness, Study Finds

Research shows retirees moving overseas often struggle with reduced social connections despite overall happiness.

A study involving 4,995 Dutch retirees abroad and 1,338 in the Netherlands found higher levels of social loneliness among those who moved overseas.
Social loneliness stems from weaker or fewer broad social connections, while emotional loneliness, tied to close relationships like a spouse, was not significantly different.
Retirees who lost contact with family and close friends from their home country were both socially and emotionally lonelier.
Maintaining connections with neighbors and fostering a sense of belonging in the new country helped reduce social loneliness.
Experts advise prospective retirees to carefully consider the impact of migration on their social networks and long-term well-being.