How to Address Social Isolation and Loneliness: Social isolation significantly increases a person’s risk of premature death from all causes, a risk that may rival those of smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity. Not only does loneliness pose severe health risks, but the number of adults suffering from a lack of social connectivity is growing: recent surveys have found that approximately half of U.S. adults report experiencing loneliness. Here’s what can stakeholders do advance social connection.