In February, we focus on friendship. Yesterday while driving home, I was listening to a podcast, and I heard a statistic that retirees have fewer friends than they used to - with one to three close friends, but they used to have between two and four. Given what my day job is, I know how important relationships and reducing social isolation is for older adults. However, I did wonder what the research said. In a 2024 study from the University of Michigan National poll on Healthy Aging, about half of adults 65 and older report having five or more close friends. The same poll found 90% of people aged 50 and older reported having at least one close friend. These were more positive results than what the podcast host was saying.
Statistics Canada has done some reporting on the number of seniors who have a least one close friends. They report that having a large network of friends may be desirable, however the difference between having no friends and one close friend is very important in reducing social isolation. The government of Canada reports that “There is a substantial amount of evidence that describes the relationship between health and social isolation. A senior’s social network can positively influence good health behaviors such as successful smoking cessation or remaining active. Conversely, socially isolated seniors are more at risk of negative health behaviors including drinking, smoking, being sedentary and not eating well; have a higher likelihood of falls; and, have a four-to-five times greater risk of hospitalization. Research also indicates that social isolation is a predictor of mortality from coronary heart disease/stroke.”
Clearly, having friends is important for both your physical and mental health. What do you do if you find your friend circle has become increasingly narrower? I did a quick search on co-pilot asking, “How do you make and nurture friendships in older life?” Co-Pilot generated the following list: 1) embrace new hobbies and interests, 2) volunteer for a cause, 3) stay connected through technology 4) attend community events and, 5) take a class. I was thrilled to see that you can do all five of these things at both Unison at Veiner Centre and Unison at Kerby Centre. Since 2020, we have worked to build opportunities to stay connected through technology. The pandemic lockdown taught us how Zoom and streaming platforms can reduce isolation and build community. You can engage in this five-step approach to building your social network, and visit unisonalberta.com to find links where you can sign up for online classes – maybe even a travel trip. You can also go to our YouTube channel to see recordings of some of these groups, classes, and listen to experts on a wide range of topics. If you didn’t set a resolution January 1st to build your social network - February is a good month to get on this track.