Loneliness among Chinese Adults: Validating the ALONE Scale With Age-Related Vulnerability

Purpose: This study validates the ALONE Scale (Chinese) and examines its age association. Method: We analyzed 2,019 anonymous adult responses from a nationwide Wenjuanxing survey in China. Using locally weighted scatterplot smoothing (LOWESS) curves and logistic regression, we compared age differences in loneliness. Results: The scale demonstrated modest internal consistency (Cronbach's α = .600) and a moderate concurrent association ( r = .606) with the 8-item UCLA Loneliness Scale. Receiver operating characteristic analysis identified a cutoff score of 10 (range = 5–15). Logistic regression indicated an inverse association between age and loneliness. The adjusted LOWESS curve revealed a nonlinear age pattern, with peaks at ages 25 and 50; descriptively, peak ages were approximately 10 years later among women than men. Discussion: While the findings support the practicality of the ALONE Scale, users should discuss cultural meanings of these five items, incorporate relational-skill training to address silent struggles, and assess age-related stigma toward loneliness.