How Your Social Life Impacts Your Health as You Age — And Why It Matters

At Good Day Pharmacy, we believe health is more than prescriptions—it’s also about connection. A recent study published in Innovation in Aging confirms what we’ve seen in our communities for years: your social network plays a powerful role in your well-being as you age.

Researchers followed over 1,500 older adults for a decade and discovered three types of social networks:

• Enriched networks with diverse, active relationships

• Focused networks with a few close connections

• Restricted networks—typically smaller, more isolated, and often centered around family
  

Not surprisingly, the most socially connected individuals—those in enriched networks—reported the best health outcomes. Meanwhile, those in restricted networks were more likely to struggle, especially over time.

Social isolation can happen for many reasons: losing a spouse, declining health, lack of transportation, or living in a rural area. The study found that women, older adults, and people of color were most at risk of moving from connected networks into more limited ones.

But there’s good news, too: change is possible. Many older adults in the study were able to grow their social circles over time, moving into more connected networks. Even frequent, meaningful interactions with a few people made a noticeable difference in reducing loneliness.

What This Means for You or a Loved One At Good Day Pharmacy, we see firsthand how staying socially active improves both mental and physical health. That’s why we’re committed to supporting not just medications, but the whole person—including your connections and community.

Whether it’s helping someone navigate Medicare, delivering medications so they can stay independent, or simply being a friendly face at the counter, we’re here to support healthy aging in every way.

Looking to strengthen your social circle?

• Visit your local Good Day Pharmacy and ask about wellness events or community health programs

• Explore volunteer opportunities or senior groups in your area

• Reach out to a neighbor or friend you haven’t spoken to in a while
  

Let’s age well—together. Because good days are made better with people who care.