Intuitively we recognise the joy of socialising - we know how much better we feel sharing stories and laughter with friends, which brings happiness and has far-reaching positive effects on our well-being. Researchers have delved into these benefits, revealing seven significant advantages that socialising offers, particularly for older adults.

Local psychologist Caryn Walsh comments, “All of us need friends. Throughout our lives. Wherever we are. Whoever we are. Some friends come and go, whilst others are in this time called life with us for the long haul. Either way, friends matter. Greatly.”

According to Michigan State University research, family and friend relationships are linked to better health and happiness at all ages. Most importantly, results indicated that as people get older, friendships become a stronger predictor of health and happiness.

Caryn reveals: “I see this when I am helping or interacting with the community at all levels and ages.  Surrounded by people who make our life enjoyable and families and friends on whom we can rely, I watch locals out and about spending time together and enjoying the sunshine.”

Benefit 1, Cognitive Health: Experts have established a compelling link between socialisation and cognitive health in seniors. It keeps the mind sharp and reduces the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

Benefit 2, Psychological Well-being: Among the leading triggers of depression among seniors are isolation and loneliness. Many aging adults grapple with feelings of despair and worthlessness. Socialising acts as a powerful antidote to these emotional challenges, fostering feelings of love and value.

Benefit 3, Improved Mental Health: Engaging in social activities reaffirms our sense of worth and contributes to improved mental health. It offers opportunities for a positive outlook and a healthy mental state.

Benefit 4, Sense of Belonging: The need for a sense of belonging remains essential throughout our lives. This becomes particularly crucial in later life, especially for those who have lost a spouse. Social connections provide a lifeline, offering support during life's ups and downs.

Caryn adds, “When we know we can meet people we trust at the local café, or we will spend time with a friend we have had for many years, our sense of positive anticipation is heightened – as is our pleasure when we are with people who form part of our ‘tribe.’”

Benefit 5, Enhanced Self-esteem: The more we engage in social activities, the more we feel like contributing to our community. Positive interactions with others boost self-confidence and overall satisfaction.

Benefit 6, Accountability: Socialisation also plays a role in keeping us on the right track with socially acceptable behaviour. It serves as a reminder to maintain self-care and avoid slipping into undesirable habits.

Benefit 7, A Sense of Purpose: For aging Australians (and everyone in society), having somewhere to go and something to do provides a sense of purpose. A robust social life infuses daily routines with excitement and anticipation.

Seniors in Kiama: 

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics in 2021, 26 000 people were living in our beautiful community, with a median age of 52 years. Of that, slightly more than half are female and slightly less male.

Walking around Kiama is where we see people enjoying the hospitality and weather that our beautiful rural town has to offer, with many of our residents enjoying a meal, walking or spending time with each other exploring the local environment.

Caryn says, “Watching this, I see how important friendship is to everybody and realise that having friendship across all stages of our life is not a nice to have, but a critical aspect of our ability to enjoy our connections and relationships with others, at whatever age.” 

There you have it: building strong connections with others enriches our lives and instils them with meaning and fulfilment. The closeness cultivated by spending quality time with loved ones underscores the immense value of socialising in making life truly worthwhile.