Exploring the positive effects of solitude on healthy aging

Promoting Health Aging through Semantic Enrichment of Solitude Research (PHASES)

NIH-funded research State University of New York at Buffalo · NIH-10941568

This study is looking at how spending time alone can help people in midlife and older age feel happier and healthier, and it’s for anyone interested in how solitude can improve emotional well-being as we age.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionState University of New York at Buffalo NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Amherst, United States)
Project IDNIH-10941568 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how solitude can contribute to healthy aging, particularly among midlife and older adults. It aims to bridge the gap between existing studies on solitude and gerotranscendence, which focuses on psychological connectedness in aging. By examining various factors that influence the experience of solitude, the project seeks to enhance our understanding of its role in promoting emotional well-being and psychological health. The research will involve evaluating personal choices, health-related factors, and external circumstances to provide a comprehensive view of solitude's impact.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who are interested in the psychological aspects of solitude.

Not a fit: Patients who are under 65 years of age or those who do not experience solitude may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental health and well-being strategies for older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the benefits of solitude for older adults, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Amherst, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.