The most treasured moments in life are often those we share with others. Staying social as we age is a powerful way to support health and wellbeing. But, there are some tricky barriers. Read on to discover the benefits of social connection and guidance on how to overcome common challenges.
Why Social Connection Matters for Your Health
Meaningful social connection is about feeling heard, valued, and part of a community. Research shows that maintaining this sense of belonging supports both physical and emotional health in older age.
A large study published in PLOS Medicine found that people with strong social relationships tended to live significantly longer than those who were more isolated - about the same impact as giving up smoking.
According to the National Institute on Aging, being socially active helps:
💓 Heart Health: Regular interaction helps lower blood pressure.
🧠 Cognitive Health: Socially active seniors have a lower risk of dementia and slower cognitive decline.
😊 Mental Wellbeing: Reduced risk of depression, anxiety, and loneliness.
🛌 Sleep and Stress: Connection reduces stress hormones and supports better sleep.
Simply put, staying connected helps you feel better and live longer.
Overcoming the Challenges
Lack of accessible transport, unfamiliar technology, and remote locations...
Many seniors face barriers to engaging in regular social activities, such as:
- Loss of friends or a spouse
- Transport, health, or mobility issues
- Hesitation about learning new technology
- Fewer opportunities for in-person socialising
- Worry about being a burden or “not knowing what to say”
It's important to address the root challenges: are they logistical, emotional, financial, or related to your mindset?
Think about the people in your network who can help, or any local services you could ask for assistance. With small changes, it’s entirely possible to enjoy the many advantages of regular social connection.
Practical Ways to Stay Social
There is no one “right” way to stay connected. What matters is that it feels meaningful to you. Some people thrive in busy social settings. Others prefer quiet chats or digital check-ins.
☕ Join a Local Social Group
From community gardening groups to singing circles, book clubs, and Men’s Sheds, many locations offer low-cost or free social activities for older adults.
👉 Perhaps it's time to try a new hobby?
See: Why It’s Never too Late to Learn Something New
📍 Volunteer
Volunteering provides a sense of purpose, boosts your wellbeing, and is a great way make friends. These days, there are even volunteer jobs you can do from the comfort of home.
👉 Tip: To find local groups start with your local library, community centre, newspaper, or council website. They often list nearby events and meetups.
📞 Create a“Connection Routine”
Try scheduling a regular time to call a friend or family member. Knowing it’s “Tuesday at 10 with Jean” adds structure to your week and gives you both something to look forward to.
📸 Share a Photo, Memory or Note
Sending a photo of your pet, garden, or favourite memory can brighten someone’s day and spark conversation. You might also enjoy writing letters or starting a memory journal.
📱 Connect using Digital Tools
Technology can bridge the gap when you live far away from loved ones. Tools like Elli Cares are designed to help families and older adults stay in touch, and prompt you with gentle reminders.
Tips for digital tools:
- Ask family or staff at your local library for help with setup or one-on-one learning sessions.
- Keep a printed “tech instruction sheet” with simple steps for logging in or opening your apps.
👉 For more helpful tips on staying social digitally, read our article: How to Join a Community Without Leaving the House
It’s never too late to connect
Sometimes we hold back from calling or messaging because we don’t want to interrupt, or feel we won’t have much to say. But usually, the person on the other end is happy to hear how we are.
Social connection isn’t about having the most friends or the busiest calendar. It’s about showing up in small, consistent ways for yourself and for those around you.
👉 This week, set a goal to try one new connection habit. This might be a phone call, a visit, or a shared laugh.
📚 References
- Holt-Lunstad, J., Smith, T. B., & Layton, J. B. (2010). Social Relationships and Mortality Risk: A Meta-analytic Review. PLOS Medicine.
- National Institute on Aging. (2023). Social isolation, loneliness in older people pose health risks. https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/social-isolation-loneliness-older-people-pose-health-risks
- Leon-Gonzalez R, Rodriguez-Artalejo F, Ortola R, Lopez-Garcia E, Garcia-Esquinas E. (2021). Social Network and Risk of Poor Sleep Outcomes in Older Adults: Results from a Spanish Prospective Cohort Study. Nature and science of sleep.13: 399–409.
