Two groundbreaking studies from the University of Eastern Finland have revealed the significant role social support plays in enhancing health and well-being among older adults. According to the research, having access to adequate social support is not only associated with increased longevity but also improves the quality of life for those receiving home care services.
The studies, which examined the various dimensions of social support and their impact on mortality over two decades, found that older adults with access to both general and health-related social support lived, on average, two years longer than those without it. This extensive research utilized 21 years of follow-up data from participants in the Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Aging and Dementia (CAIDE) study.
Impact of Social Networks on Longevity
The research highlights the importance of diverse social networks in promoting longevity among older adults. Doctoral Researcher Catherine Kayonga from the University of Eastern Finland emphasized the critical role of friends, neighbors, and colleagues, noting that reliance solely on family for support was linked to a higher mortality risk.
“We found that older adults who received general and health-related social support from relatives only had a higher mortality risk compared to those who also received support from friends, neighbours and colleagues,” Kayonga stated.
Interestingly, the study also identified a counterintuitive trend: individuals under 70 who lacked social support faced a higher mortality risk than their older counterparts, challenging previous assumptions that family support was paramount.
Enhancing Quality of Life in Home Care
In addition to longevity, social support was found to significantly impact the quality of life for older adults with increased care needs. The study utilized data from the Old-age Social Exclusion in Home Care – Prevalence, Meanings & Intervention (SOLDEX) project, revealing that social support correlates with improved psychological well-being and functional abilities.
“We found that having access to social support was associated with a better quality of life, while those with less social support experienced a lower quality of life,” Kayonga explained.
The findings underscore the importance of addressing social needs alongside health in home care services. Higher education emerged as a vital factor in shaping quality of life, while difficulties with daily activities were linked to a decline in well-being.
Policy Implications and Future Directions
The studies suggest that policies should focus on enabling older adults to forge and maintain social connections beyond family ties. This approach could foster a more supportive environment that enhances both longevity and quality of life.
Kayonga advocates for a broader perspective on health promotion, suggesting that efforts should not only target old age but also incorporate preventive measures throughout life stages. This comprehensive approach could mitigate the risks associated with social isolation and improve overall well-being.
The research was conducted under the Neuro-Innovation PhD programme, funded by the University of Eastern Finland and the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme.
As the global population ages, these findings offer valuable insights into how social structures can be leveraged to support healthier, longer lives, highlighting the need for integrated health and social care strategies.
