Men's Social Networks Decline Significantly as They Age

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Researchers have known for several decades that a robust social support network improves overall well-being for people of all ages.

Those with stronger support networks tend to experience a positive mood more often, recover more quickly from health issues, and even live longer. And there is evidence that loneliness and isolation are linked to many health issues: sleep problems, inflammation, pain, insomnia, depression, anxiety, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, addiction, suicide, and self-harm and dementia.

A new longitudinal study published in the journal Psychology and Aging takes a careful look at how social networks change over the course of a lifetime.

The study began by following 235 male Harvard University students, who were originally recruited between 1939 and 1942. Researchers followed the men for 71 years, collecting data about their emotional support networks through open-ended questions such as, “With whom do you usually talk over personal problems?”

They found that the men’s emotional support networks declined significantly as they grew older; participants reported that their number of emotional support providers decreased by approximately 50% between the ages of 30 and 90.

Life events led to changes in emotional support networks. For example, networks grew smaller when participants married, suggesting they relied more on their spouses rather than broader connections.

Data also found that childhood experiences played an important role in shaping support networks. Those who reported supportive and nurturing relationships with their parents had larger support networks as adults.

It is important to note that only men participated in the study and most of them were white; surveying women or minority populations may have led to different results.

A broader paper, which analyzed data from more than 120,000 participants ages 13 to 103 from 20 countries, found similar results. Researchers determined that loneliness follows a U-shaped trajectory across the lifespan, decreasing from young adulthood to midlife and then increasing for older adults.

The take-home message: The evidence shows that social isolation increases later in life. Taking conscious steps to stay connected and build social support networks later in life will boost well-being.

The National Institute on Aging offers tips for maintaining and broadening your social network later in life.

• Find an activity or hobby that you enjoy. Try signing up for a class to learn something new.
• Schedule time each day to stay in touch with family, friends, and neighbors. Talk with people you trust and share your feelings.
• Use communication technologies such as video chat or smart speakers to help keep you engaged and connected. If you’re not tech-savvy, your local library or community center may be able to help.
• Consider adopting a pet if you are able to care for one. Animals can be a source of comfort.
• Stay physically active. If you can find ways to exercise with others, even better!
• Find a faith-based organization where you can deepen your spirituality and connect with others.
• Join a cause or get involved in a community organization.