Social Connections

You’ve heard it before: “Friends are good for the soul.” But science takes it even further—friends are good for your lifespan. Study after study has confirmed that people with strong, supportive social connections tend to live longer. In fact, one major analysis published in PLoS Medicine found that strong social relationships improve your odds of survival by 50%, comparable to quitting smoking.

We often talk about loneliness as an emotional issue. But mounting research shows it’s a serious threat to your physical health—on par with smoking, obesity, and high blood pressure.

You’ve probably heard that puzzles and brain games help keep your mind sharp. But one of the most powerful mental workouts? Talking to other people.

We all know that diet and exercise are important for a long life. But there’s one powerful, often-overlooked factor that science keeps coming back to: regular, meaningful time with family.

In an age of solo apartments and far-flung relatives, the idea of living with your children—or your parents—may feel old-fashioned. But new research suggests it might be one of the most underrated longevity boosters out there.

We tend to think strong friendships just "click." But lasting relationships, especially in adulthood, are often the result of small, intentional habits practiced over time.

We often hear that giving back feels good. But it turns out, helping others can actually help you live longer.From volunteering to caregiving, mentoring to small daily acts of kindness, research shows that purposeful service boosts physical health, emotional well-being, and even life expectancy.

Ask anyone with a decades-long friendship or a close family bond, and they’ll probably tell you the same thing: strong relationships don’t come from grand gestures. They come from showing up—again and again.

Social media has made it easier than ever to stay in touch—on the surface. You can have hundreds of “friends,” yet still feel completely alone.That’s because real connection isn’t measured by likes or comments. It’s felt through presence, empathy, and shared experience.

Making friends in your 60s, 70s, or beyond might feel daunting—but it’s far from impossible.
In fact, it’s one of the best things you can do for your health and happiness as you age.