Balanced diet and regular physical activity are understood as critical factors to maintaining our health and well-being, preventing chronic disease and supporting longevity. A third important pillar in supporting our health as we age is social connection.
In 2023, the Surgeon General raised the alarm about the epidemic of loneliness and the importance of social connections for the health of individuals and communities. The report highlights how significantly lack of social connection may impact our health1:
- Lacking social connection can increase the risk of early mortality by as much as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
- Social isolation and loneliness are associated with a 29% increased risk of heart disease and a 32% increased risk of stroke.
- Stronger social connections are linked to a lower risk of developing hypertension, or high blood pressure.
- Social connection has been shown to support better diabetes management.
- Chronic loneliness and social isolation can increase the risk of developing dementia by approximately 50% in older adults.
With the permanence of remote work and the appeal of social media for online interaction, opportunities to forge in person social connections may require a more deliberate effort. However, given the benefits of a social support network, maintaining social connection should rank as important as diet and exercise in maintaining our health.
Creating new friendships is easier when working together toward a common goal. Joining local organizations, athletic groups and volunteer organizations all provide opportunities to meet people while doing something you enjoy. Even simply gathering for lunch together to catch up with work colleagues can help build positive connections during the workday.
As we age, the risk for social isolation increases. Senior centers provide space and programming to bring seniors at risk for social isolation together. While technology has reduced the need for in-person interactions, it provides a convenient medium for regular contact with friends and family.
Lastly, when considering your social connectedness, remember quality over quantity. Not everyone is a social butterfly, but maintaining 4-6 friendships can ensure you build a social support network to help maintain your mental and physical wellbeing, alongside diet and exercise.
Read an overview with this handout.
References
1 Office of the Surgeon General. (2023). Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation: The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-social-connection-advisory.pdf
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