Social Engagement

A recent national survey of older adults living alone, conducted by AARP, found both good and not-so-good news when it comes to seniors aging “solo.” About 10% of the US population over age 50 are “solo agers” and for women over age 75, that number jumps to 42%. It’s a…

We’ve noted previously that despite the vicissitudes and life-altering events that can happen as one gets on in age, most older adults experience a period of happiness and contentment in their later years. In fact, a recent study published in the Psychological Bulletin found that subjective well-being varies across the…

There’s no doubt that our population is aging. And as a larger percentage of us get older, it’s important to understand how we can prolong our cognitive abilities and protect our brains from the ravages of dementia. After all, age is the major risk factor for Alzheimer’s, and projections are…

This past April, US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy created quite a stir when he declared that our country suffers from an epidemic of loneliness and isolation. He issued a 70+ page advisory report on the importance of social connection for the health and well-being of our country. Murthy, the author…

It’s no secret that friendships– perhaps even more than romantic or family relationships- are critical for keeping yourself healthy, both physically and mentally, as you move on into your later years. But as we’ve also previously said, friendships typically just don’t happen- they require effort, intention, and even active pursuit…

 As we’ve previously posted, social connections in your life appear to be critical for all sorts of health parameters as you get older. Covid underscored that even for the best of reasons, isolating older adults can cause serious negative consequences to their physical and emotional well-being. Even “weak ties,” i.e.,…