Loneliness Index - SwipeLife

This tool measures subjective loneliness using items adapted from the UCLA Loneliness Scale, developed by Russell, Peplau, and Ferguson (1978) and revised by Russell in 1996. It is one of the most cited loneliness measures in the empirical literature, used extensively in research on social isolation, aging, and mental health.

Loneliness is a subjective state — the distress that arises from a perceived discrepancy between the social connections you have and the connections you want. The 2023 U.S. Surgeon General Advisory distinguishes loneliness (subjective, felt) from social isolation (objective, measurable), noting they do not always co-occur. This tool addresses the subjective dimension: how frequently you experience specific aspects of disconnection, rather than how many people you know or see.

The scale asks about frequency across ten dimensions drawn from the UCLA framework: companionship, feeling left out, isolation, having someone to turn to, feeling understood, relationship depth, and genuine connection. Scores range from 10 to 40. This tool addresses self-reported loneliness only and is not a clinical instrument for diagnosing any condition.

Educational tool only. Loosely based on the UCLA Loneliness Scale (Russell et al., 1980). Not a clinical diagnostic instrument. If you are experiencing significant distress, please consult a mental health professional.

1. How often do you feel that you lack companionship?

Never Rarely Sometimes Often

2. How often do you feel left out?

Never Rarely Sometimes Often

3. How often do you feel isolated from others?

Never Rarely Sometimes Often

4. How often do you feel that there is no one you can turn to?

Never Rarely Sometimes Often

5. How often do you feel alone?

Never Rarely Sometimes Often

6. How often do you feel that people around you don't really understand you?

Never Rarely Sometimes Often

7. How often do you feel that your social relationships are superficial?

Never Rarely Sometimes Often

8. How often do you feel that people are barely acquainted with you?

Never Rarely Sometimes Often

9. How often do you feel that your interests and ideas are not shared by those around you?

Never Rarely Sometimes Often

10. How often do you feel that you cannot find real connection in the people around you?

Never Rarely Sometimes Often

Loneliness score

Population context

Based on UCLA Loneliness Scale (Russell DW. J Pers Assess. 1996;66(1):20–40). Score range 10–40. Higher scores indicate greater loneliness. Population norms from Cigna/Ipsos (2020).