Loneliness epidemic: As we become more and more isolated, tech companies search for solutions

Despite being more connected than ever, we’re pretty lonely right now. So lonely, in fact, that the World Health Organization has even declared the ‘loneliness epidemic’ a global public health concern. Roughly a quarter of the world reported feeling isolated, with young people making up the brunt of that figure. In other words, we’re facing a crisis. So, what’s the answer?

While there are plenty of tech-based attempts to address loneliness available, they’re all relatively primitive in their approach, designed to be temporary fixes to the symptoms of loneliness, rather than a solution to the causes of it.

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[W]earables could incorporate loneliness sensors, tracking indicators of a period of loneliness. “The wearable could be paired with an app. When it notices the signs, it could offer suggestions. Maybe to meet up with a friend or something as simple as going out in public to feel more connected to society,” says Dr Jeremy Nobel, author of the book Project UnLonely.

A variety of apps, wearables and gadgets are emerging that, when combined, are able to address the variety of types of loneliness we’re facing today.

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