Having Social Connections Linked To Slower Aging Process

Cornell University researchers found that strong social networks may slow biological aging by reducing inflammation. The study of 2,117 adults averaging 55 years old showed people with robust family, faith, friendship, and community ties had lower levels of IL-6, a key inflammation marker. Lead author Anthony Ong’s team measured “cumulative social advantage” across 16 indicators including religious involvement, emotional support, and civic engagement. Participants with higher social advantage also showed slower aging on clocks that estimate biological age. Community engagement had the strongest effect, accounting for 18.5% of the social advantage measure. Positive relationships contributed 10.5%, while feeling valuable to society added 9.7%. The cross-sectional study cannot prove social ties directly cause slower aging, as healthier people may simply maintain more connections. (Story URL)