Time may help or perhaps make loneliness worse. Living by myself for 51 years, I am accustomed to it but I submit in my younger days I kept busy never having enough time in a day to accomplish all I desired. Now that I don't care to do any of my many hobbies, I find sharing here on SOC passes time and distracts my mind from any lonely thoughts that might arise from a relaxed mind. My daily workout and walks also do wonders. If your old age loneliness is from the loss of a partner of many years, then I don't know. I know some that have living partners but are still lonely. I think finding mental things to do as well as keeping active physically, is the key. In short, I guess distraction is my answer.
For the 22 years I was divorced, up until early 2000, when I met my wife, there were times when I was lonely. But, numerous times in those 22 years, I had a girlfriend or seeing a lady. But, in-between those "having a girlfriend" times, I could get bored on weekends and want Monday to arrive so I could go back to work. There are those that love being alone, but, fortunately that's not either my wife nor I. But, my BIL (wife's brother) loves being alone. He's never been married.
Hoping to find a soulmate and to fall in love once again,i have been on a few deployments lately and barely make time for myself.i am taking time this year to do things that truly makes me happy and that is to find a woman of my dreams.Ha
As @Faye Fox said, it may be more difficult if you have lost a long-time companion. I had no difficulty living alone prior to being married, but I had many friends and lots of activities to keep me distracted. I also read a great deal. After having been married for 45 years however, I would find it very hard to live alone now.
Michael--I don't live alone but I wanted to say hello and welcome to the forum. Maybe spending some time here with us will help you pass some time.