Important facts (CB)

Loneliness can lead to Alzheimer’s disease, depression, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease. Loneliness has the same effect on life expectancy as smoking, obesity and physical inactivity

The effect of loneliness on life expectancy can be compared to well established risk factors such as smoking and alcohol consumption

Prolonged loneliness can reduce or completely destroy our social skills

Prolonged loneliness resembles a state of stress and is harmful for our bodies

Denmark's annual health costs were approx. 150 billion Danish Krones in 2014 - the equivalent of ca. 11% of BNP.

Do not design for old — design for all. It’s important not to presume older generations don’t know how to use technology

One in four Australians are lonely, which affects their physical and mental health

Senior citizens’ social relations can be improved by implementing information and communication technologies

Loneliness can have serious consequences for the individual and is associated with lower self-esteem, anxiety, insecurity, mental and physical disorders.