A Q
10% of Tirana residents feel lonely, a figure below the European average of between 11 and 13%.
The data was made public by a report compiled by the European Commission, regarding the situation of loneliness in Europe.
According to experts, young people are more likely to feel lonely, with 15% of the 18-39 age group reporting feelings of loneliness, compared to 12% of those aged 40-54 and 11% of the elderly. Studies show that loneliness decreases with age.
Economic status and education are protective factors against loneliness. Unemployment significantly increases the risk, with around 20% of the unemployed reporting feelings of loneliness, compared to only 12% of full-time employees.
Loneliness has also been seen to be strongly linked to the perception of a lack of non-material social support, especially for vulnerable groups such as the unemployed.
Urban planning and social infrastructure can play an important role in addressing social and health problems, including loneliness. Built spaces, such as parks, cultural facilities, and shared spaces, have been shown to be helpful in alleviating feelings of loneliness.
Redaksia
