💨 Abstract

Bill Schmitt, the last of his childhood friend group, experiences profound loneliness after losing all his friends. Similarly, Barry Appelbaum feels lonely caring for his wife who suffers from a severe stroke. Loneliness is prevalent among older adults, with 44 million American adults affected. It is linked to serious health issues such as heart disease, dementia, and premature death. Loneliness differs from being alone; it's about feeling disconnected.

Courtesy: WTOP Staff