The importance of friendships for seniors is often overlooked as familial relationships are often deemed “more important” by most people. However, new research suggests that this might no longer be true.
According to studies conducted by William J. Chopik of the Department of Psychology at Michigan State University, the older we get, our friendships start to have a bigger impact on our health and mental well-being.
In the first study of 271,053 adults, valuing friendships was related to better functioning, specifically in older adults, whereas valuing familial relationships “exerted a static influence on health and well-being across the lifespan.” In the second study of 7,481 older adults, only strain from friendships predicted more chronic illnesses over six years.
With COVID-19 still ravaging the country and a new variant of the virus on the loose, staying in touch with friends and loved ones have been difficult. We at Angels Homecare (a licensed provider of professional senior care in Chicago, Illinois) understand the stress and pressure that a lot of seniors are feeling.
Our home care agency in Lombard, Illinois is always here to support seniors and their loved ones alike and provide them with the necessary care and assistance they need to live safely, healthily, and independently at home.
We also have an exceptional program for dementia care in Illinois that may benefit your loved ones.
Contact us today to know more.
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