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. 

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