Friendships ‘vital for health and happiness as people age’

New research has highlighted the significant impact a strong friendship can have on people's health and happiness as they grow older.

Michigan State University scientists have analysed data from a pair of studies involving nearly 280,000 people, finding evidence that friendships become increasingly important to a person's happiness and health across their lifespan.

Although both family and friend relationships were linked to better health and happiness overall, only friendships became a stronger predictor of improved outcomes at advanced ages.

The research also showed that the quality of friend relationships is pivotal, as those who said their friends were sources of strain reported more chronic illnesses, while those whose friends were a source of support tended to be happier.

William Chopik, the Michigan State University assistant professor of psychology who led the research, said: "Keeping a few really good friends around can make a world of difference for our health and wellbeing. So it's smart to invest in the friendships that make you happiest."

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