How Friendships Change as We Age—and Why They Matter More Than Ever

• 90% of people age 50 and older reported that they have at least one close friend (48% have 1-3 close friends, 42% have 4 or more), while 10% do not have any close friends.*
• About half of older adults with fair or poor mental health (47%) said they do not have enough close friends.*
• The majority of adults age 50 and older with a close friend (70%) said they can definitely count on their close friends to provide support in discussing their health.*

Whether you’re 65 or 95, friendship is one of life’s greatest treasures. Friends provide emotional support, encouragement, and laughter—qualities that directly contribute to mental, emotional and even physical well-being. They help us feel connected and valued during both everyday moments and life’s bigger transitions.

As we age, the meaning of friendship often deepens, taking on new significance beyond casual companionship. But friendships can also change, be lost, or weaken as we get older, naturally changing the circles built over a lifetime.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at aging and friendship … how friendships evolve with age, the many ways they enrich our well-being, strategies for building new connections, and how the lifestyle senior living communities offer helps reduce isolation by fostering new friendships and a renewed sense of belonging.

The Evolution of Friendship & Social Connection 

Friendships often evolve as we grow older. According to a recent article on Aging and Friendship in Forbes, several factors influence how friendships through the ages change. Life transitions such as retirement, relocation or shifting family dynamics often reshape social circles.

Retirement, for example, can be both liberating and challenging. While it frees us from the structure of work, it also means leaving behind coworkers and the daily routines that naturally kept us connected. For many, this change can create a void in regular social interaction.

Downsizing to a smaller home or moving closer to family can provide comfort and convenience, but it may also mean saying goodbye to longtime neighbors and familiar gathering places. Starting over socially in a new environment can feel overwhelming, especially after decades of stability.

Adult children moving away, friends relocating or the loss of a spouse or partner can also reshape your circle of friends.

Friends are Good for Your Health

Friendships are an essential part of well-being and healthy aging. According to a study published by the National Institutes of Health and Human Services, having friends in old age is linked to higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction. The report found that encounters with friends were more pleasant and were associated with fewer discussions about stressful experiences compared to encounters with romantic partners or family members throughout the day. Encounters with friends were also associated with a better mood.

Conversely, not having close friends, according to a recent poll conducted by the University of Michigan’s National Poll on Healthy Aging, can adversely affect mental health and may result in missed opportunities for support with engaging in positive health behaviors, like getting exercise, eating healthy foods and seeking health care when needed.

A 2023 advisory by the U.S. Surgeon General not only highlighted the benefits of friendship but also showed how it supports cognitive and physical functioning as we age. The research indicated that adults with strong social connections have a lower risk of many health problems, including depression, high blood pressure, and an unhealthy weight. Other potential benefits include:

A longer life. The research showed that people who feel isolated face a significantly higher risk of early death compared to those with strong social connections.

A healthier heart. Loneliness has been linked to higher rates of heart disease and stroke, while having a circle of trusted friends can encourage healthier habits and provide the encouragement needed to stay active and engaged. Strong social ties may even reduce the risk of diabetes and kidney disease.

A sharper mind. For older adults, chronic loneliness can raise the risk of dementia by nearly 50%. Regular social contact, whether through conversations, shared activities, or simply spending time together, helps keep the brain active and sharp.

Less stress. Friendships provide an invaluable buffer against stress and depression. Having people to turn to makes everyday challenges feel lighter and reduces the harmful health effects that stress can cause over time. Likewise, adults who stay connected are far less likely to develop depression than those who feel lonely.

A healthier immune system. Socially connected people are more resilient to illness and often recover more quickly if they do get sick

Finding New Circles

No matter your age, it’s always possible to make new friends. Sometimes it means taking the first step—inviting someone to lunch, a walk, or a class. Opportunities for building friendships are everywhere.

Experts from the Mayo Clinic suggest:

• Go to events in your community. Look for groups or clubs that gather around an interest or hobby. You may find these groups online, in the newspaper or on local message boards. Some websites help you connect with new friends in your neighborhood or city.
• Volunteer. Offer your time or talents at a hospital, place of worship, museum, community center, charity or something similar. You can form strong links when you work with people who have interests like yours.
• Give and accept invitations. Invite a friend to join you for coffee or lunch. When you’re invited to a social event, say yes. Then return the invitation.
• Take up a new interest. Take a college or community education course to meet people who have interests like yours. Join a class at a local gym, senior center or community fitness center.
• Join a faith community. Then go to special activities and get-to-know-you events for new members.
• Take a walk. Grab your kids or pet and head outside. Chat with others you see along the way. Or go to a popular park and talk to people there.
• Calm your nerves. If you’re nervous about meeting new people, you may be tempted to stay home. Use deep breathing, yoga or other mind-body techniques to help you relax.

Is Social Media Really Social?

Joining a chat group or online community might help you make or keep friends and help you feel less lonely. However, the Mayo Clinic research suggests that use of social networking sites doesn’t always lead to a larger offline network or closer offline connections with network members. The study also warns to be careful when sharing information about yourself. And take care when meeting with someone you’ve met online.

Senior Living Communities: A Solution to Social Isolation

A recent report by the American Seniors Housing Association (ASHA) highlights how senior living communities are uniquely positioned to reduce social isolation and foster meaningful connections that enhance quality of life. In fact, many residents discover they are more active and engaged than they were while living alone.

One daughter shared, “It used to be that any time my sister, brother or I wanted to see our mom, she was available. Now, she has to check her schedule! We are so thrilled to see her so happy and engaged with life again.”

From structured programs and group activities to casual gatherings and spontaneous conversations, senior living communities provide countless ways for residents to connect—with each other, with staff, and with the wider community. Best of all, residents have the freedom to choose how they participate, creating a lifestyle that feels both active and authentic.

Find Community

Whether it’s a friendship that has lasted through the ages or a brand-new relationship, having a solid social circle of friends raises your sense of connection and purpose. Friendships can improve self-confidence, provide support during challenges like illness or loss, and even encourage healthier choices by helping you avoid habits that don’t serve your well-being. A senior living community is the perfect place for older adults to continue to make friends and form new community bonds, even in the midst of change and loss. Find your community today.

Where You Live Matters

For families exploring their senior living options, access to accurate, comprehensive data is invaluable. WYLM offers this and more by providing exclusive industry insights, unbiased resources, and direct community connections. It’s not just about finding a place to live; it’s about making the best possible choice for the future – because where you live really does matter. Start your search today.

Sources:
National Library of Medicine
Alzheimer’s Association
*University of Michigan’s National Poll on Healthy Aging