Why do most people love secrets? They make us feel as though we have special knowledge that is very valuable… In our new Series on Aging, we will share great advice from all over the world which plays strongly into the various ways we can embrace the years ahead, both on our own and as a community.
When it comes to aging, we’ve all heard the usual advice—eat your veggies, take a walk, maybe even pick up yoga. But according to recent research, what’s even more powerful is staying personally connected in many ways. That’s right, meaningful engagement with society could very well be the key to a longer, happier life. So, let’s break it down.
- Relationships: More Than Just a Chat Over Coffee
Turns out, the best predictor of health and happiness as we age is the quality of our relationships. We’re talking about the kind of connections that give you purpose and make you feel like a valued part of your community—not just idle small talk. According to the McKinsey Health Institute (MHI), older adults who engage with society through work, volunteering, or lifelong learning are healthier and happier than those who don’t. It’s like a secret superpower for aging well.
- Finding Purpose Beyond Binge-Watching
It’s not just about keeping busy—it’s about doing things that make you feel needed and fulfilled. Whether it’s volunteering at a local charity, picking up a part-time gig, or joining a community class, these activities help older adults stay sharp and connected. Plus, they offer something even better than a Netflix marathon: a bigger sense of purpose.
- Why This Matters on a Bigger Scale
Here’s where it gets more interesting. The benefits of societal engagement aren’t just personal—they’re economic too. In fact, McKinsey estimates that if more older adults who want to work or volunteer actually had the chance, it could add a whopping $6.2 trillion to the global economy. In the U.S. alone, that’s $1.7 trillion. Not bad for simply giving people more ways to stay involved, right?
As our Series unfolds, you will find specific examples we will share of successful models in communities all over the world – examples we can customize to be great working models in our own communities here. It’s clear that staying connected to society as we age isn’t just a “nice-to-have”—it’s essential. From reducing loneliness and keeping our minds sharp to boosting physical health, the benefits of engagement are too good to ignore. And it’s not just about individuals—when older adults are active in their communities, everyone wins!
So, while we’re all for healthy eating and regular exercise, let’s not forget the power of purpose and community. After all, aging well isn’t just about how long we live—it’s about how well we live. As we unfold the next several blogs in our new Series, feel free to write us and share your own thoughts about additional models and examples we can share with our AgingTopic readers.