Don't Forget About Granny: Older Adults Experience Better Reported Health When Connected With Family And Friends

Main Category: Seniors / Aging
Article Date: 21 Aug 2009 - 9:00 PDT

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Older adults who have stronger social support networks are more likely to report better overall health compared to their counterparts lacking adequate social interactions and emotional support.

A new study examines the difference that social support may have on how U.S. community-dwelling elders self-report their health status. The study sample included 3,476 adults aged 60 years and older, which was collected from the 1999-2002 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Researchers found that older persons who reported that they needed more support also reported having poorer health; whereas older persons, who were satisfied with the support available to them, reported better health.

The study's authors conclude, "With an estimated 7.6 million older adults feeling the need for more emotional support in America, awareness of the ongoing potential scope of the problem helps evaluate whether providers of health and social services to older persons are adequately prepared to address these health needs."

From: "Social Support and Self-Reported Health Status of Older Adults in the United States."

Source
American Journal of Public Health

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