Research shows that loneliness could increase the risk of dying early by 50%. Researchers looked at how loneliness affected the risk of dying early. People can be lonely even if they are with family and friends. There are also dangers with living alone and with social isolation. This is having little or no contact with others. The research showed that the risk of dying early was 50% lower for people who mixed with their family and friends.
The researchers said loneliness could be more dangerous than obesity. A professor said this is worrying because the people are getting older. She said many countries are worrying about a 'loneliness epidemic'. She said teachers should teach social skills to children in schools and doctors should talk about loneliness to their patients. Finally, she said people should prepare for their social life in their old age like they prepare for their financial future.