Age Concern Canterbury warns that chronic loneliness among New Zealand's elderly may lead to other health complications for them.
In a world firstm more than 70,000 people, with an average age of 83, have been surveyed for a study on aging by the University of Otago, Christchurch.
Age Concern chief executive Simon Templeton, speaking today on TVNZ 1's Breakfast, said chronic loneliness can be more harmful than it sounds and it could have negative health effects.
"We know there's an increase in cardiovascular risk, there's an increase in stroke, and of course the mental health impacts as well - so depression, anxiety," Mr Templeton said.
"One study showed that loneliness in older people is equivalent to their health of smoking 15 cigarettes per day - and we know how bad cigarette smoking is - so similar outcomes.
University of Otago research surveyed more than 70,000 people.
"It's actually killing people."
Mr Templeton said it is society's issue to deal with and that people can help by getting to know their neighbours.
"What we suggest people do is get to know their neighbours ... it's a great time to perhaps knock on the door."
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