Loneliness increases risk of premature death in seniors: “According to research by a professor at the University of Chicago, extreme loneliness can increase an older person’s risk of premature death by 14%,” making it “nearly as potent as disadvantaged socioeconomic status.” Loneliness may disrupt sleep, raise blood pressure, increase cortisol levels and raise depression risk. Moreover, seniors with a strong social support system have better “physical and mental resilience” that helps them to live longer, according to the researcher, John Cacioppo.