Staying Social Can Help Older Adults Live Longer, Study

By Adebowale Bello. B.Tech Microbiology, Freelance Health Writer. Medically reviewed by the DLHA Team.

Four elderly African female friends posing together. Image credit: Freepik.

As we get older, there’s a growing tendency to slow down, stay indoors and talk less with others. While this might seem normal or harmless, new research is showing that being socially active in old age could actually help you live longer. Yes, something as simple as chatting with neighbours or joining a church group might have powerful effects on your health, even more than some medicines.

So what’s the science behind this? What does it mean for older Africans who may not always have strong social support? Let’s break it down.

About the Study

The research was carried out by a group of scientists in the United States who wanted to understand how social engagement affects the health and survival of older adults. They looked at 2,268 people aged 65 years and above, observing their daily habits, social interactions and general health for 4 years.

The study focused on different forms of social engagement such as taking part in community events, talking with friends and family, joining religious or cultural groups and offering help to others. The researchers then followed up to see how long these people lived and what role social connections played in that.

They also considered other things that could affect health, like age, income level, physical activity and medical conditions. This helped them isolate the impact of social engagement on its own.

What the Study Found

The results were interesting. Older adults who had low levels of social engagement were significantly more likely to die earlier than those who were socially active.

This wasn’t just a small difference. Even after adjusting for health status, wealth and lifestyle, people who were socially withdrawn still had a higher risk of death. This means that social isolation on its own was a strong risk factor, just like smoking, high blood pressure or poor diet.

In contrast, those who regularly interacted with others, joined community or religious groups or offered informal help to neighbours had better overall health and a longer lifespan.

The researchers also explored why this might be happening and they suggested three main reasons:

• Social interaction helps reduce stress and improve cognitive skills.
• Being part of a community gives people access to help and information
• Having friends or a network improves emotional well-being and mental health

What The Study Means to Africans

In many African societies, strong community bonds have always been part of a way of life. From extended families to church gatherings to market groups, Africans often do live together. But times are changing. Urbanisation, migration and modern work patterns are making people, especially older adults feel more isolated than before.

In many African countries, many elderly people are left alone at home while their children travel for work or move abroad. Others live in busy cities where people are too caught up in their own hustle to check in on neighbours.

This study is a strong reminder that we must not neglect social health. In fact, just as we take malaria drugs or monitor our blood pressure, we should also be paying attention to how socially active we are, especially in old age.

For those caring for older parents, relatives or community members, this means:

• Encouraging regular conversations, even if it's just phone calls
• Involving elders in family events or church activities
• Helping them join local groups or associations, even virtually
• Creating safe and friendly environments where they can meet others

For older adults themselves, it's never too late to reconnect. Visiting an old friend, attending a religious centre or volunteering to teach young children in the neighbourhood can do wonders for your health.

Wrap Up

As Africans, we have a rich tradition of community living but we must protect and promote it, especially in this modern age where people are becoming more isolated. Loneliness is not just a social issue, it's a public health concern that we should recognise.

If you have an older person in your life, reach out to them today. If you're aging yourself, don’t wait for others, take the first step. Join a group, start a conversation or simply show up where people are. It may just make a difference.

Source: Abugroun, A, Shah, S.J, Covinsky, K, Hubbard, C, Newman, J.C. and Fang, M.C. (2025), Low Social Engagement and Risk of Death in Older Adults. J Am Geriatr Soc. Available from here

Related:

Four Social Factors That Influence Your Lifespan

Social Factors Shaping African Women’s Health

Published: July 3, 2025

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