Page 28 - Seniorstoday Aug 2024 Issue
P. 28
Life Lessons
Social Relationships And
Their Impact On Longevity
We all want to grow old healthily and live a long life, writes Annette Müller
The main focus is on health. How can we survive over a given time period than
influence this desire? What can we do? those who are socially isolated.
First, we have to look at the question of Our social contacts are not just a nice
which factors play a role. These include way to pass the time, but a fundamental
the obvious ones, such as good genes and component of our well-being and
a solid and effective health system. These longevity. They not only affect our psyche,
are probably the first things that come to but also our physical health. Studies have
mind when asked about the main factors shown that people with strong social
for longevity. In addition, a good diet, ties have a lower risk of heart disease,
regular exercise, good sleep, not smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes and even
moderate drinking, a normal weight and a certain types of cancer. The presence of
relatively stress-free life. social relationships appears to strengthen
But are there other influences that play the immune system and improve the
at least an equally important, or perhaps body’s defenses against disease. This
even more important, role? is due to the release of hormones and
What makes us happy and when do we neurotransmitters that have an anti-
feel particularly good? inflammatory effect on the immune
Studies have shown that people with system.
a strong social network and good Social interactions increase the
friendships tend to live longer. In fact, a production of hormones such as oxytocin,
study published in the PLOS Medicine serotonin and endorphins, which are
journal revealed that people who have known as “happiness hormones” and give
strong social ties are 50% more likely to us a feeling of well-being and satisfaction.
28
