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WEDNESDAY, Feb. 20, 2019 (HealthDay News) – A new study suggests interacting with many different people to help you live longer and healthier lives.
Researchers found that seniors who spent more time with family members, close friends, acquaintances, occasional friends and even strangers were more likely to be physically active, spend less sitting or lying down, having a more positive attitude and less negative feelings.
"Adults often become less physically active and become more sedentary as they get older, and these behaviors are a risk factor for illness and death," said Karen Fingerman, author of the study. She is a Professor of Human Development and Family Science at the University of Texas at Austin.
According to Fingerman, it can be difficult to force people to exercise, but it may be easier to get them to get to know them, to participate in group events or to talk to people. who serve in restaurants.
"Socializing in these contexts can also increase physical activity and various behaviors in a way that benefits health without necessarily sweating," she said in a press release issued by a university.
For the study, Fingerman and his colleagues interviewed more than 300 adults over 65 on their activities and social gatherings every three hours for a week. Participants also wore electronic devices to track their physical activity.
The researchers found that when participants met with various social partners, they participated in more activities, such as going out, walking, talking with other people, and shopping. They were also more physically active and spent less sedentary time.
Co-author of the study, Debra Umberson, director of the University's Population Research Center, said most research on aging focused on close family ties and spouses.
"This new research is based on truly innovative data that captures both the quantity and quality of contact with all types of people that older adults encounter during the day – and the results show that these routine encounters present important benefits for the level of activity and psychological well-being. -be, "she said in the press release.
"This new information suggests the importance of policies and programs that support and promote current and informal social participation," Umberson said.
"Older adults may be more sedentary with their close friends and family, sitting and watching TV or lounging at home," Fingerman added. "But to maintain relationships, the elderly must leave home or at least get up from their chairs to open the door."
This study showed that knowledge could encourage older people to be more physically active, in order to improve their physical and emotional health, the researchers noted.
The report was published on February 20 in the Magazines of Gerontology Series B: Psychological and Social Sciences.
More information
The US Department of Health and Human Services offers more information on healthy aging.
SOURCE: University of Texas at Austin, press release, February 20, 2019
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