Rethinking Urban Loneliness Policy From a Place-Based Perspective

• In Event: Algorithmic Governance: Machine Learning and Spatial Analytics in Public Policy

Abstract

Loneliness has emerged as a major public health challenge with significant consequences for mental and physical well-being, prompting growing policy attention across national and local governments. Yet most policy responses and empirical research on loneliness continue to focus on individual and demographic risk factors, leaving the role of place largely unexamined. This study addresses this gap by empirically testing whether place-based factors are associated with loneliness. Using a nationally representative survey of adults aged 18–80 years, we confirmed that neighborhood satisfaction, place attachment and social infrastructure accessibility were associated with lower loneliness. These findings point to the need for local governments to incorporate place-based strategies into future loneliness prevention policies.

Author

• Hemin Choi, Incheon National University
  Presenting Author