Study: Strong social ties linked to slower aging
Social support from childhood to adulthood may slow biological aging by affecting DNA methylation.
Why it matters
- Social connections may influence aging at the molecular level, potentially impacting longevity and health.
- Findings suggest that lifelong social bonds are linked to slower epigenetic aging and reduced inflammation.
By the numbers
- Study involved over 2,100 adults from the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) study.
- Higher social advantage linked to lower levels of interleukin-6, a marker for inflammation.
The big picture
- Social advantages accumulate over time, shaping health trajectories.
- Disparities in access to social resources may contribute to inequalities in aging and health.
What they're saying
- The study authors emphasize the importance of sustained social connections over a lifetime.
- Ong compares social connections to a retirement account, with consistent contributions leading to greater biological returns.
Caveats
- The study is correlational and does not prove causation.
- Access to social resources varies by race, class, and education, potentially exacerbating health disparities.
What’s next
- Further research may explore interventions to promote social connections and their impact on aging.