An abundance of research indicates that the quality of our social relationships can play a critical role in our well-being as we age. The strength of our social ties may even have effects on our physical health, contributing to how well we age.
Importance of meaningful relationships
In an analysis of data from a longitudinal study, my colleagues and I found that individuals with greater social support and community cohesion experienced better mental health later in life, particularly amongst those who had had challenging childhoods.
Among the resources examined, the quality, rather than the quantity, of these relationships was found to offset some of the negative experiences that participants had had in early life, leading to greater resilience and better mental health as they grew older.
Functions of friendship
A systematic review of adult friendship and well-being speaks to several important functions of close adult friendships, including three forms of social support:
- Emotional support: friends offer acceptance, sympathy, love, and encouragement—a critical buffer against life’s stressors.
- Instrumental support: friends may also provide practical help, such as financial assistance or help with daily tasks.
- Informational support: friends share advice or guidance as a key function of friendship.
And the six functional components that generally determine the quality of the relationship include the following:
- Help, which includes the three aforementioned forms of social support.
- Stimulating companionship, which involves participating in activities with another person.
- Emotional security, in which close friends provide a sense of safety during new or challenging situations, thus reducing stress.
- Reliable alliance, where trust and loyalty form the foundation of any deep friendship, making sure someone will always have your back.
- Self-validation, where friends provide the reassurance and encouragement needed to maintain a positive self-image.
- Intimacy, where the willingness to share personal thoughts and feelings builds a unique bond that is essential for emotional well-being.
Health benefits of strong social relationships
A recent study found that social isolation reduced physical activity levels in older adults, leading to diminished cognitive performance. This was especially evident in individuals over 65, with effects on memory and executive function. This research emphasizes that staying socially connected, either through direct interaction or through group activities, can significantly affect the physical and mental aspects of aging.
Conversely, loneliness and social isolation have been linked to a higher risk of developing health issues such as cardiovascular disease, cognitive decline, and even premature mortality. Social isolation can reduce motivation for physical activity, and loneliness can increase stress levels, contributing to a range of health problems.
Embrace and cultivate rich relationships
Take this time to reflect on the people in your life. Which relationships bring you joy and fulfillment? Who can you reach out to today to make a positive connection? Whether it’s a close friend or a family member, deepening your social ties may bring health and happiness into your life.
Healthy aging is more than a matter of diet and exercise—it’s also about keeping those rich relationships that help us bloom, even as we grow older.
by Theodore D. Cosco, PhD (Cantab), CPsychol