Significant coronavirus impact - Report reveals that females face greater impact of isolation than males.
In a recent study, it has been found that women in Germany experience loneliness more than men. The gender-based loneliness divide has been amplified due to the COVID-19 pandemic, as per a recent presentation by Family Minister Lisa Paus (Greens). As per the loneliness barometer provided by Paus, the percentage of women feeling "frequently lonely" rose from 8.8% in 2017 to 33.2% in the year 2020, only to drop back to 12.8% in 2021.
The percentage of men feeling frequently lonely also saw an increase, albeit a lesser one, from 6.6% in 2017 to 23.1% in 2020 and decreased to 9.8% in 2021. This data was obtained from the Socio-Economic Panel surveys conducted in 2021.
Family Minister on the Study: "Loneliness is not limited to a particular age group"
The overall sense of loneliness has escalated during the pandemic, particularly among the younger generation. In the year 2020, the loneliness rate among those aged 18 to 29 was a high 31.8%, while the group of individuals aged 75 and above had a comparatively lower rate of 22.8%. Previously, older people experienced loneliness more often. Paus emphasized, "Loneliness is not a matter of age."
The Green politician highlighted that loneliness represents a challenge for society as a whole, as it affects millions of people and has become more pronounced during the pandemic. "We should not turn a blind eye to the 'social long COVID-19,'" added Paus. She announced various measures, including an "Anti-Loneliness Action Week" from June 17-21 and a campaign featuring short videos on social media targeted at reaching younger individuals.
According to the study, single parents, the unemployed, low-skilled workers, people with chronic illnesses, and those with migration or refugee experiences are disproportionately affected by loneliness. There are very few differences in the prevalence of loneliness between those living in rural areas versus cities or between eastern and western German states.
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