A third of retirees feel lonely or socially isolated - study

The research from Age Concern found 59 percent of kiwis aged 65 plus had recently felt lonely or socially isolated. But up to 30% feel that way a lot or all the time. Last year, the US surgeon general described loneliness as public health crisis, with a report saying the mortality impact of being socially disconnected is similar to smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day. Here in Aotearoa, Age Concern said its reached epidemic levels and is leading to ill health in older people. It wants the government to appoint a Minister for Loneliness.CEO of Age Concern Auckland Kevin Lamb spoke to Lisa Owen.