Why Social Connection Matters More as We Age

And How Create & Connect Supports Healthy, Independent Living

As we age, it’s easy to focus on the physical changes—mobility, strength, memory, or chronic health conditions. While biology certainly plays a role in aging, research consistently shows that how we age is deeply influenced by our environment, especially our social connections.

Loneliness, social isolation, and reduced access to meaningful activities aren’t just emotionally difficult—they are serious health concerns. Recent research highlights that social connection is a key determinant of health, quality of life, and independence in older adults.

Aging Is More Than a Medical Process

According to the World Health Organization, aging is shaped not only by our bodies but by social, economic, and environmental factors. Many older adults face layered challenges such as reduced income, loss of social roles, mobility limitations, and ageism. These challenges were intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to increased loneliness, anxiety, depressed mood, and even cognitive decline among older adults worldwide.

A recent large study of adults aged 65–93 in Portugal found that while many older adults rated their overall health as “good,” a significant number reported:

• Difficulty with mobility and daily activities

• Ongoing pain or discomfort

• Feelings of anxiety or depression

  
  

Importantly, many of these concerns are not fully addressed by traditional medical care alone.

Enter Social Prescribing: Connection as a Health Intervention

The study explored the concept of social prescribing, which is gaining global recognition. Social prescribing allows trusted professionals (medical providers, therapists, or community organizations) to connect individuals with non-medical community supports that improve health and well-being.

Instead of only treating symptoms, social prescribing addresses root causes like isolation, lack of stimulation, and reduced purpose.

The findings were clear:

• Over 75% of older adults believed social prescribing would benefit their health and their community

• Participants valued activities that promoted creativity, personal growth, and cultural enrichment

• Group-based activities were especially meaningful, offering both social connection and cognitive stimulation

  
  

Even more telling? Many participants reported they rarely discussed loneliness or social concerns with their doctors—yet they overwhelmingly believed these supports would improve healthcare and quality of life.

Why Group Connection Is So Powerful

The research reinforced something we see every day in practice:People thrive when they feel connected.

Group activities were particularly valued by:

• Individuals with chronic pain or discomfort

• Those with mobility limitations

• People with fewer educational opportunities

• Retirees seeking purpose and structure

  
  

Creative and cultural activities stood out as especially meaningful, offering joy, identity, and shared experience. These activities are not something to “pass the time,” but something to look forward to.

How Create & Connect Fits In

Our Create & Connect group was designed with all of this in mind.

It’s more than a social gathering, it’s a health-promoting space where older adults can:

• Build genuine relationships

• Engage in creative and meaningful activities

• Stay mentally and socially active

• Feel seen, valued, and included

This is exactly the type of community-based support highlighted in the research: accessible, inclusive, and centered on the whole person, not just their diagnosis.

Connection Is Not a Luxury — It’s Essential

This study reinforces an important message:Social connection is not optional as we age—it’s foundational to health.

Older adults are not a single, homogeneous group. They have diverse needs, interests, and abilities. Programs like Create & Connect allow for flexibility, personalization, and dignity while supporting independence and quality of life.

If you or a loved one are looking for a supportive, engaging way to stay connected, stimulated, and involved, Create & Connect may be a perfect fit.

Reference: Costa, et al. Social prescribing for older adults in mainland Portugal: Perceptions and future prospects. Preventive Medicine Reports,Volume 39, 2024.