Strong Social Bonds May Help Slow Down Biological Aging

Having a vibrant social life does more than lift your spirits—it may actually help slow down how quickly your body ages, according to a 2025 study by Ong and colleagues.

The Research

The research, published in Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, was co-authored by Laura Kubzansky, professor of social and behavioral sciences at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, along with scientists from Cornell University, Weill Cornell Medicine, and Stony Brook University's Renaissance School of Medicine.

Key Findings

Using data from over 2,100 participants in the long-term Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) project, the team found that individuals with strong and lasting social ties—through family, friendships, religious involvement, or community participation—showed biological signs of slower cellular aging and lower chronic inflammation compared to those who were less socially connected.

Social Connection as a Health Pillar

Experts involved in the study also highlighted the importance of treating social connection as a key pillar of health, on par with nutrition, physical activity, and sleep. They encouraged people to view loneliness as a biological signal, much like thirst or hunger—a natural reminder that our bodies and minds need connection.

Implications for Health and Wellness

This groundbreaking research has significant implications for how we approach health and wellness:

1. Social Connection is Fundamental

Just as we prioritize physical exercise and proper nutrition, we should also prioritize building and maintaining meaningful social connections. These relationships aren't just nice to have—they're essential for our biological health.

2. Loneliness as a Health Signal

Rather than dismissing feelings of loneliness as simply emotional, we should recognize them as important biological signals that our bodies need social connection, similar to how we respond to hunger or thirst.

3. Quality Over Quantity

The study emphasizes "strong and lasting social ties," suggesting that the depth and consistency of relationships matter more than the number of connections we have.

4. Diverse Forms of Connection

The research highlights multiple pathways to social connection—family relationships, friendships, religious involvement, and community participation—showing that there are many ways to build meaningful social bonds.

Practical Applications

Based on these findings, here are some evidence-based strategies to strengthen your social connections:

• Prioritize existing relationships: Invest time and energy in deepening connections with family and close friends.
• Join community groups: Participate in activities that align with your interests and values.
• Volunteer: Contributing to causes you care about can create meaningful social connections.
• Practice active listening: Show genuine interest in others' experiences and perspectives.
• Be vulnerable: Share your own experiences and challenges to build deeper connections.
• Regular check-ins: Maintain consistent contact with important people in your life.

Connection to Lifestyle Medicine

At M7 Lifestyle & Wellness, we recognize that social connection is a fundamental pillar of health alongside nutrition, physical activity, sleep, stress management, and substance control. This research reinforces our holistic approach to health and wellness.

Our lifestyle medicine programs don't just focus on physical health—we understand that meaningful social connections are essential for overall wellbeing and can significantly impact biological aging processes.