Story perspectives

Loneliness Cuts Years, Boosts Dementia Risk Like Smoking

6/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. researchers who surveyed 175,000 adults in 18 countries found loneliness shortens lifespan and raises cognitive-impairment risk.
People 10 % lonelier face an 8-9 % higher impairment risk and mortality comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes daily.
Eileen Graham of Northwestern says lonelier people are likely to progress to stages and less likely to recover.
Stephanie Cacioppo of UChicago Medicine recommends gratitude, helping others without expectation, and sharing positive news to curb loneliness.

1 of 1

Story summary

U.S. researchers who surveyed 175,000 adults in 18 countries found loneliness shortens lifespan and raises cognitive-impairment risk.
People 10 % lonelier face an 8-9 % higher impairment risk and mortality comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes daily.
Eileen Graham of Northwestern says lonelier people are likely to progress to stages and less likely to recover.
Stephanie Cacioppo of UChicago Medicine recommends gratitude, helping others without expectation, and sharing positive news to curb loneliness.