I think most people realize that loneliness is a problem that is hidden away out of sight, and is easily forgotten. Time and circumstance force loneliness onto a person and most are ashamed or embarrassed to admit that they have no friends or family to pass the time with, so they remain in isolation and that makes the problem even worse. Even people who seem perfectly happy and outgoing can be the very ones who enter a place of forgotten isolation when they return home and close the door.
It is a difficult problem to resolve, especially when lonely people are not willing to admit that they are indeed lonely. Loneliness leads directly to depression and a depressed person feels like they are in an emotional hole and cannot get out. Something as simple as inviting a neighbor for tea is an insurmountable undertaking. Friendship needs to be imposed on the lonely; it is seldom ever actually requested. Circumstances have forced them to not "want to be a bother."
A nice, food-for-thought posting, Pete, and one to make us think about something we all conveniently forget.