Moving to Germany

‘Being honest helps’: how expats have overcome loneliness in Germany

Removed from their language and culture, many people who first arrive in Germany experience feelings of isolation. The Local has spoken to expats who have struggled with loneliness to find out how they overcame it.

loneliness 2

Why do so many people in Germany live alone?

For 17.3 million people in Germany, there is no need to discuss who is doing the dishes or buying more toilet paper this weekend: they run their household alone.

Health

Two thirds of Germans think the country has a major loneliness problem

A new survey has revealed that a majority of Germans think that loneliness is a big problem in their society, with only a small number seeing it as of little relevance.

Startups

The Munich startup trying to tackle old-age loneliness through Oma’s baking

An innovative Munich start-up employs pensioners to bake old-fashioned, traditional cakes. It offers them the opportunity to earn money, feel useful and meet people – and their customers, to enjoy cakes baked with love.

ageing

Duisburg pensioner lies dead in flat for three years before being found

A pensioner lay dead in his apartment in western Germany for almost three years before workmen found his body, police reported on Wednesday.

offbeat

Student in southern Germany finds free digs - at seniors' home

A young student has won a competition to live in a senior citizen's home for free. In return for spending time with the residents, she gets free room and board.

Health

Calls grow for Germany to follow UK example and combat rising loneliness

German politicians and religious leaders called on Friday for the government to follow the example of the UK and do more to combat loneliness in society.