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For those over 50, maintaining close friendships goes beyond casual conversations over coffee; it plays a critical role in their health and overall well-being. A recent study uncovers a concerning trend: while 75 percent of older adults report having enough close friends, those experiencing poor mental or physical health are much less likely to sustain these important social connections. This finding highlights how health issues can lead to social isolation, potentially worsening health conditions.

The University of Michigan's National Poll on Healthy Aging surveyed 3,486 adults aged 50 to 94, offering detailed insights into how friendships evolve as people age and their essential role in promoting health and well-being. The study results reveal a complex relationship between health status and social ties that many might not fully appreciate.

"With growing understanding of the importance of social connection for older adults, it’s important to explore the relationship between friendship and health, and identify those who might benefit most from efforts to support more interaction," said University of Michigan demographer Sarah Patterson.

Patterson, a research assistant professor at the UM Institute for Social Research’s Survey Research Center, underscores the importance of comprehending these social networks. A significant 90 percent of adults over 50 say they have at least one close friend, with 48 percent maintaining one to three close friendships and 42 percent having four or more. However, these figures drop sharply for those dealing with health issues.

Among individuals with fair or poor mental health, 20 percent report having no close friends at all, which is double the overall rate. Similarly, 18 percent of those with fair or poor physical health report having no close friends, indicating that health challenges can severely impact social connections.

There's a notable gender difference in maintaining friendships: men are more likely than women to have no close friends. Age also plays a role, with adults aged 50 to 64 more likely to report lacking close friendships compared to those 65 and older—a somewhat surprising discovery that challenges the idea that social isolation increases with age.

Modern technology has helped older adults stay connected. In the month leading up to the survey, 78 percent of older adults had in-person contact with close friends, while 73 percent connected over the phone, and 71 percent used text messages. This multi-method approach shows how older adults are adapting to new ways of maintaining their friendships.

These findings resonate with AARP, a supporter of the study.

"This poll underscores the vital role friendships play in the health and well-being of older adults," says Indira Venkat, Senior Vice President of Research at AARP. "Strong social connections can encourage healthier choices, provide emotional support, and help older adults navigate health challenges, particularly for those at greater risk of isolation."

What stands out most is how close friends contribute to health and well-being. Of those with at least one close friend, 79 percent say they can definitely count on these friends for emotional support in good times or bad, and 70 percent feel confident turning to their friends for health-related discussions. These aren't just casual connections—they are crucial support systems influencing health behaviors and outcomes.

Consider this: 50 percent of older adults report that their close friends have encouraged them to make healthier choices, such as exercising more or eating better. Another 35 percent say friends motivated them to get concerning symptoms checked by a healthcare provider, and 29 percent received encouragement to quit unhealthy behaviors like poor eating habits or excessive drinking.

Practical support from friends is also significant: 32 percent had friends help them when sick or injured, 17 percent had friends pick up medications, and 15 percent had friends accompany them to medical appointments. These statistics highlight how friendship networks can serve as informal healthcare support systems.

The study, however, highlights a challenging paradox: forming and maintaining friendships becomes harder when people might need them the most. Among those with fair or poor mental health, 65 percent say making new friends is tougher now than when they were younger, compared to 42 percent of the overall population. Similarly, 61 percent of those with fair or poor mental health find it more difficult to maintain existing friendships, compared to 34 percent of the general over-50 population.

Despite this, there is a strong desire to form new friendships, with 75 percent of older adults expressing interest in developing new connections (14 percent very interested, 61 percent somewhat interested). This interest is especially strong among those who live alone or feel lonely, highlighting an awareness of the importance of social ties.

The study also identifies a noteworthy trend in friendships across different age groups. Of those with at least one close friend, 46 percent have a friend from a different generation (defined as at least 15 years older or younger). Of these, 52 percent have friends from both older and younger generations, while 35 percent have friends only from younger generations, and 13 percent have friends only from older generations. This diversity in age range suggests that meaningful connections can bridge generational gaps.

The implications of these findings extend beyond personal relationships. Healthcare providers are encouraged to acknowledge the crucial role that friends play in their patients’ health journeys, from promoting preventive care to supporting healthy habits. Community organizations are urged to create more opportunities for social interaction, especially those that are inclusive and accessible to individuals with varying health conditions.

"When health care providers see older adults, we should also ask about their social support network, including close friends, especially for those with more serious health conditions," says Dr. Jeffrey Kullgren, the poll director and primary care physician at the VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System.

Reflecting on the cycle of health and friendship highlighted in this study, it becomes evident that the old saying about friendship being the best medicine may hold more truth than previously thought. As healthcare increasingly focuses on holistic well-being, perhaps it's time to consider a friendship prescription as part of the standard of care.

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