New research suggests that loneliness and social isolation may increase risk of dying early by 50 per cent. research is from Brigham Young University in USA. Researchers tried to find out how loneliness affected risk of early death. They said loneliness can occur even if people are surrounded by family and friends. Researchers also looked at dangers to health of social isolation. This is when people have little or no contact with others. research showed that risk of premature death was 50 per cent lower for adults who mixed with friends and family. Researchers found that loneliness, social isolation, and living alone were all associated with increased risk of early death.
researchers added that loneliness, social isolation, and living alone could be more dangerous than obesity. Professor Julianne Holt-Lunstad said results of her research are worrying because population is aging. She said: "Many nations around world now suggest we are facing 'loneliness epidemic'. challenge we face now is what can be done about it." She suggested that one way to help with this problem is to teach social skills to children in schools. She also said doctors should talk more about loneliness to their patients. In addition, she said people should prepare for their old age social life like they take out pensions to prepare for their financial future.
