New findings published in Innovation in Aging reveal the outcomes of a 10-year study into ageing and health.
The research, led by Lissette Piedra and James Iveniuk, examined over 1,500 participants from the National Social Life, Health, and Ageing Project to assess how social connections influence well-being in later life.
Distinct Network Types and Their Impact on Ageing Outcomes
The researchers identified three distinct types of social networks that older adults typically fall into: enriched, focused, and restricted. Each network type reveals a different level of social connectivity and health outcomes.
Enriched networks are characterised by diverse, active relationships that provide substantial social engagement and emotional support. Participants in these networks reported the best self-rated health.
Piedra emphasised the positive impact of these connections, noting, “We know that these social networks are particularly important as we age and that loneliness has huge implications for cognitive and physical health.”
The study found that 43% of those in focused networks eventually expanded their connections to join the enriched group, but 22% became more isolated, moving into restricted networks.
Over 85% of participants in restricted networks remained in them throughout the study period, highlighting the enduring impact of social isolation.
Disparities in Social Connectivity and Health Across Demographic Groups
The study’s findings reveal significant disparities in social connectivity and health outcomes across demographic groups. Women, Black participants, and the oldest respondents were most likely to experience a decline in social connections, transitioning from enriched to focused or restricted networks.
Piedra noted that social isolation and loneliness are particularly prevalent among minoritised racial and ethnic groups, stating, “Older adults’ social circles may shrink due to poor health, loss of loved ones, poverty, discrimination, language barriers, or living in rural or unsafe communities.”
Participants in the focused group reported lower levels of loneliness than those in restricted networks, underscoring the importance of meaningful social interactions over sheer network size.
Structural Barriers to Sustaining Robust Social Networks
The study identifies several structural factors that impede older adults’ ability to maintain enriched networks. Widowhood, the death of close friends, and mobility constraints can all contribute to network contraction.
“If you’re an older woman and your social life revolved around your husband, his death may cause your network to decline,” Piedra explained.
Additionally, living in rural or high-crime areas with limited transportation options exacerbates social isolation, making it difficult for older adults to stay connected.
Signs of Positive Network Mobility Among Ageing Populations
While many older adults remain trapped in limited social networks, new research reveals a surprising trend: a number of participants are expanding their connections over time, moving into more dynamic and supportive social environments.
Piedra emphasised the importance of targeted public health interventions that support network expansion, particularly for vulnerable groups. “It behooves us to understand who is vulnerable and think about creating tailored public health interventions so that everyone can age well,” she said.
Public Health Recommendations for Strengthening Social Infrastructure
Researchers are calling for targeted public health strategies to address the gaps. The study points to specific interventions like community programming and resource access that could help older adults age with dignity and connection.
“The quality of our final years becomes very problematic without an enriched social life.” Piedra emphasised.