CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – A recent AARP study shows that loneliness is affecting a growing number of adults over 45, with the holiday season amplifying these feelings.

The research found that 40% of adults aged 45 and older report feeling lonely.

Loneliness is most common among people in their late forties and fifties, who often juggle work, raising children, and caring for aging parents while social networks shrink.

Men reported slightly higher rates of loneliness than women, with 42% compared with 37%.

Nearly half of lonely adults say they have fewer friends than they did five years ago.

The study also found that almost one in four lonely adults, or 23%, are interested in using artificial intelligence tools for companionship.

The findings highlight the importance of staying conne

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