Maintaining healthy relationships is important as we age

Positive connections can be just as vital to our health and well-being as diet and physical activity. Maintaining a solid social network as we age can lead to a longer, healthier life, even if our connections with people change with time.

A social network is basically a collection of individuals you know. We offer and receive both instrumental and emotional assistance through this network, which might include friends, family, coworkers, neighbors, and others.

Instrumental support refers to the practical assistance we provide or receive, such as transportation for a neighbor or child care for friends or family. Emotional support is meant to improve our moods, alleviate grief, motivate us to achieve our goals, or assist us in problem-solving.

Consider your social networks and connections as a convoy accompanying you on your journey through life. Some of our friendships are long-term commitments. Others use the on- or off-ramps, while others take a completely other route. Your convoy's relationships evolve throughout time, but they all give support and contribute to your overall well-being.

The road might feel lonely as we become older, especially if we're caring for children or elderly parents. Maintaining friendships can be difficult. This is typical, and it means you'll have to work more to build and keep relationships, which isn't easy.

If you’re looking to expand your social network, here are some ideas:

• Make a list of who is already in your social network and see if there are any people you have met that you might connect with.
• Make an attempt to communicate.
• Go where the crowds are! It may seem self-evident, but go to events, church, or community activities.
• Join or volunteer for a group, club, or cause that you are passionate about.
• Invite people and accept their invites.
• Be available - it takes time to build a relationship.

Establishing and keeping relationships is beneficial to your health in addition to providing needed assistance. Positive connections may increase your happiness, reduce stress, raise your confidence, and help you cope with traumatic events in your life.

Adults with a robust social network have a decreased risk of depression, have lower blood pressure, and have a healthier BMI (BMI). Building new connections and devoting time to nurturing existing ones might be beneficial on the road to greater health.