30 Jul 2025
Friendship Is the Best Medicine: Why Connection Matters as We Age
Today is International Day of Friendship, and it’s got us thinking about something simple — and powerful. The people we laugh with. The ones who remember our stories. The ones who sit beside us without needing to say much at all.
Friendship.
It’s something we all need. And as we get older, it can become even more important — not just for our hearts, but for our health.
So, to mark this special day, we want to share why friendship matters so much in later life, and how we can all play a part in helping those around us feel more connected, more included, and more alive.
Why Friends Matter (Even More Than You Think)
We all know friendship feels good. But did you know it’s actually good for you?
Research has shown that having close friends can:
Lower your risk of depression and anxiety
Help you stay sharper as you age
Even help you live longer
In fact, one study found that strong social relationships can increase your chance of living longer by up to 50% — that’s as powerful as quitting smoking.
And yet, loneliness is something many older Australians still experience. A national survey by the University of Michigan found that 1 in 3 adults aged 50–80 feel isolated often. Those who reported feeling lonely also said they struggled more with physical and mental health.
But here’s the beautiful part: just one close, meaningful friendship can make all the difference.
Later Life: A Surprisingly Wonderful Time for Friendship
We often think friendships are something for school or young adulthood. But older adults actually tend to be better at friendship. Why? Because they’ve seen life. They’ve learned what really matters. They choose quality over quantity.
According to the BBC, people in their later years are more emotionally attuned. They’re quicker to forgive, more open to differences, and more present in their relationships. That means the friendships they form can be some of the deepest and most rewarding.
At Lumia Care, we see this every day. Two people meeting in one of our Day Programs who instantly click. A carer becoming a companion. A shared joke turning into a long conversation.
It’s never too late to connect.
What Friendship Looks Like at Lumia
In our work, friendship shows up in beautiful, ordinary ways.
It’s:
Sharing a cuppa and a laugh with someone at a Day Program
Getting a visit from a support worker who remembers your dog’s name — and your favourite biscuits
Connecting over music, movement, or a memory that brings back a smile
These moments aren’t small. They’re everything.
They’re what help someone feel seen — not just as a client, but as a person. And they’re part of what makes Lumia more than just a care provider. We’re a partner in helping people live their lives, their way — surrounded by connection.
Want to Nurture More Connection? Start Small.
Friendship doesn’t need to be grand gestures or lifelong bonds. It can begin with the smallest spark.
If you or someone you know is looking to build more connection, here are some gentle ways to start:
Say yes to a local event or activity, even if you feel a bit hesitant
Call an old friend, just to say hello
Join a community group (our Day Programs are great for this!)
Chat to someone new at the café, the park, or even in your building
And if you’re a Lumia Care client, don’t be afraid to lean on us. We believe in care that includes heart — not just health.
How Lumia Care Can Support Social Connection
Staying socially connected is easier with the right support. At Lumia Care, we offer services designed to help people build relationships, stay active, and feel part of their community.
Day Programs
Our day programs provide a welcoming environment where people can connect, participate in group activities, and enjoy a sense of belonging. From creative sessions to social outings, there are opportunities to meet others and build friendships.
Social Support
Our social support services help people stay engaged with their community — whether that’s attending events, visiting friends, or simply having someone to share time with.
👉 Learn more about Social Support
Aged Care Services
Our aged care services focus on the whole person — including emotional and social wellbeing. We work with each individual to create personalised support that encourages independence while maintaining meaningful connections.
Take the First Step Toward Connection
If you or a loved one could benefit from more social connection, Lumia Care is here to help.
Speak with our friendly team today to find the right support for you.
👉 Make an enquiry
📞 Or call us directly on 1300 796 876
From One Friend to Another
On this International Day of Friendship, let’s all remember: we were never meant to go through life alone. As we age, we still need connection. We still need laughter, understanding, stories, and support. We still need friends.
At Lumia Care, we’re here to help create those moments. Because whether you’re 28 or 88, friendship is something that lifts us up — every single day.
So reach out. Make the call. Share the smile. Because that next great friendship might be just around the corner.
Further reading:
The Value of Friendships as We Age – University of Michigan
Why later life can be a golden age for friendship – BBC Future
How Social Isolation Affects Brain Health – NIH
Holt-Lunstad, J. et al. (2010). PLOS Medicine Meta-Analysis on Social Relationships and Mortality