The impact of the built environment on loneliness: A systematic review and narrative synthesis

Publication Name

Health & place

Abstract

Loneliness is a pressing public health issue. Although quintessentially individual, it is shaped by wider environmental, cultural, socio-economic, and political circumstances. Using a systematic review methodology, this paper draws on interdisciplinary research to conceptualise the relationship between the built environment and loneliness. We present a narrative synthesis of 57 relevant studies to characterise the body of evidence and highlight specific built-environment elements. Our findings demonstrate the need for further conceptual and empirical explorations of the multifaceted ways in which built environments can prevent loneliness, supporting calls for investment into this public-health approach.

Open Access Status

This publication may be available as open access

Volume

79

First Page

102962

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Link to publisher version (DOI)

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.healthplace.2022.102962