Defining and Addressing Loneliness in Older Adults with Cancer

Document Overview

Document Title

Defining and Addressing Loneliness in Older Adults with Cancer

Authoring Society

Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer

Document Publication Date

Jan 7, 2026

Page Last Reviewed/Updated

May 6, 2026

Document Type

Consensus Statement

Country of Publication

Global

Full Text Freely Available

Yes

Full Text Guideline

www.thelancet.com/journals/lanhl/article/PIIS2666-7568(25)00130-8/fulltext

Source Citation

Soto-Perez-de-Celis, Enrique et al. “Defining and addressing loneliness in older adults with cancer: an international Delphi consensus from the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer Geriatrics Study Group.” The lancet. Healthy longevity vol. 7,1 (2026): 100811. doi:10.1016/j.lanhl.2025.100811

Document Scope, Criteria, and Use Cases

Document Objectives

Loneliness is a growing public health concern among older adults (aged 65 and older) but remains understudied and under-recognised in geriatric oncology. This Health Policy paper presents survey-based Delphi consensus statements developed by a global panel of experts from the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer Geriatrics Study Group on the definition, assessment, and management of loneliness in older adults with cancer, to inform research and clinical practice. A consensus was reached on the definitions of loneliness, emphasising upon both emotional and social components, and including contextual factors such as life events and community structures. Multidisciplinary assessment using brief evaluation tools at the time of cancer diagnosis was highlighted. Community-based interventions such as support groups, home visits, and psychological counselling were prioritised over technology-driven approaches for future research. Outcomes considered the most relevant for research on loneliness included quality of life, treatment adherence, and survival. These statements could guide future clinical and research initiatives targeting loneliness in geriatric oncology.

Scope

Assessment and Screening, Counseling, Management

Diseases/Conditions (MeSH)

D000073116 - Cancer Survivors

D008132 - Loneliness

Keywords

Loneliness, cancer

Inclusion Criteria

Male, Female, Older Adult

Health Care Settings

Ambulatory, Home Health, Long Term Care

Intended Users

Counselor, Nurse, Nurse Practitioner, Physician, Physician Assistant, Psychologist