Visiting Loved Ones More Often Reduces Risk of Premature Death

We’ve previously discussed the dangers of loneliness and social isolation. Back in May, the surgeon general declared loneliness a public health epidemic. In fact, some people have been warning about the dangers of loneliness and isolation since the 90s!

But what is social isolation? You see coworkers in the office, chat with other parents at your kid’s soccer game, make small talk with the Starbucks barista, and visit your family over the holidays. You’re not lonely… or are you?

Not all social connection is the same

A CNN article by Kristen Rogers brought to my attention a new study on the effects of social isolation on mortality. The study’s results suggest that some types of social connections are more beneficial than others.

The researchers measured social isolation based on the frequency of visits from friends or family, involvement in weekly group activities, and whether participants lived alone. Any lack of these forms of social connection was linked to an increased risk of premature death.

Interestingly, attending activities with groups of people didn’t mitigate this risk if those groups were not close friends or family, implying that deeper social connections significantly impact our well-being. Regular contact with loved ones, at least monthly, was associated with a lower risk of early death.

Family may be the key to health

Many people enjoy the holiday season because they get together with family they rarely see. To improve your health (and that of your loved ones), this might be the year to plan more family get-togethers.

The study found that regular visits with loved ones (close friends or family) had the best outcome for participants. Participants who had regular visits with loved ones received further benefits from engaging in group activities.

On the other hand, the benefits of regular group activities (sports, religious services, hobbies, etc.) could be counteracted by not having visits with loved ones. Participants who lived alone and didn’t have visits with close friends or family saw their risk of premature death increase by 39%—even if they were involved in weekly group activities.

Friends are the family we choose

About 1-in-4 Americans aren’t on speaking terms with at least one family member. Millions of Americans moved during the Covid pandemic, adding physical difficulties to visiting family.

Are these people just doomed to early mortality?

Fortunately, no!

The study examined the visit frequency of family and friends. The important factor wasn’t the relationship of the visitor but the closeness of that relationship. Visiting a close friend at least monthly can improve your health and reduce your risk of premature death.

Have questions about your health? Talk to Dr. Aliabadi

As one of the nation’s leading OB/GYNs, Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi offers the very best in women’s health and well-being. From family planning to annual wellness checks, having a knowledgeable doctor in your corner can improve your health and quality of life.

We invite you to establish care with Dr. Aliabadi. Please make an appointment online or call us at (844) 863-6700.

The practice of Dr. Thais Aliabadi and the Outpatient Hysterectomy Center is conveniently located for patients throughout Southern California and the Los Angeles area. We are near Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Santa Monica, West Los Angeles, Culver City, Hollywood, Venice, Marina del Rey, Malibu, Manhattan Beach, and Downtown Los Angeles.