I don't know that I have ever experienced loneliness per se. I certainly enjoy being around people, but I don't "need" it. We live in an "over 55" golfing community and have a large group of friends that we interact with daily, but I like my quiet times as well.

It's very true that older people need the stimulus of social interaction in order to slow down the normal cognitive impairment of aging, as well as verbalization issues. Many older people who live alone have difficulty expressing themselves. They cannot seem to find the right words. Think of socialization as a form of exercise for the mind. It's one of those "use it or lose it" things.

Nonetheless, many of us still appreciate our quiet time :-)