Friendship in old age is more necessary than ever to avoid social isolation and foster motivation and enthusiasm.
Written and verified by the psychologist GetPersonalGrowth.
Last update: 15 November 2022
Friendship in old age is an essential pillar for the well-being of the person. At this stage of life, social bonds continue to be important, if not decisive: they may be just as necessary as they were during adolescence. Company, encouragement, complicity, trust, affection and closeness are authentic nutrients for the elderly.
To understand the importance of this bond during old age, just think that one of the main sources of sadness for an elderly person is social isolation. We know that loneliness makes life difficult, depresses and dulls the will to live. Unfortunately, in fact, loneliness and old age often go hand in hand.
An elderly person who has lost a spouse has no choice but to accept the situation and move on. But the idea that the elderly cannot avoid loneliness is certainly a form of discrimination and a cultural distortion that needs to be corrected. Enjoying an excellent quality of life is a human right at any age and don't get used to unwanted loneliness.
Tennessee Williams said that life is, to a large extent, what we do with the friends we choose. Establishing connections throughout life gives meaning, momentum and meaning to our lives, essential at any age.
Friendship in old age is just as important as medication
As we grow and progress through life, we learn a lot about friendship. Not surprisingly, at 20 we manage friendships differently than we will at 60.
Day by day, we learn about the human being and relationships and also discover who deserves our affection and who is best to leave behind. We become more selective and know exactly what we want.
Many seniors reach their third age with a more limited or less accessible family network. To the loss of a spouse is added the empty nest, not having children, siblings, grandchildren nearby ... Social isolation is a shadow that hangs over the elderly, which can only be avoided thanks to friends.
The importance of visits from neighbors or social services is indisputable, yet they are devoid of emotional charge. Support services are useful and offer many benefits, but they cannot replace a friend who gives hope.
Friendship in old age must be quality, intimate and meaningful to have a real impact.
Friendship bonds improve mental health more than bonds with relatives
The University of Carolina Department of Gerontology reveals in a study that friends play an essential role in reaching old age. This is because they have a stronger impact on psychological well-being than the company of relatives.
How come? It is true that a father or a mother loves their children and their grandchildren; however, they cannot always be counted on. Having a circle of friends means socializing, leaving the house, making plans in the short and long term, sharing worries, sadness, joys, confidences, etc.
All these dynamics of daily life stimulate the brain and generate positive emotions. Friendship in old age is therefore an indispensable pillar, almost as much as the family.
Friendship in old age makes you independent and promotes well-being
Reaching the third age in the cycle of life does not mean losing the will to live and enthusiasm. Some wrinkles on the face do not quench the desire to experiment. Unfortunately, ageism and prejudices around the elderly distort the image that can be had of this phase of existence.
Many people reach their sixties or seventies with various unexpected social needs, which can lead to isolation, existential dissatisfaction, and depression. Luckily, all of this can change by building meaningful and inspiring friendships.
In many cases, the arrival of this phase can become a time to enjoy your time more than ever. The company of other people of the same age and in the same situation can encourage you to undertake new projects.
This in many cases makes it possible to meet expectations and experience not undertaken in youth for various reasons.
Women love to surround themselves with friends much more
The fact that older women enjoy friendship most in old age has an explanation. First, life expectancy is higher for women, so they are more likely to be alone. The proximity of other people, especially friends of the same age, directly affects their physical and psychological health.
Friendship in old age is made up of complicit, satisfying and necessary alliances in the daily dimension. Likewise, it is an excellent way to prevent social isolation and improve the quality of life.
Of course, one aspect must not be overlooked: our society must facilitate these dynamics. The community should provide gathering spaces for seniors, as well as activities to encourage participation, with short and long term goals.
In a future where society will get older and older, we certainly need these big changes.
