Friends certainly make life better - and they, and even acquaintances, might make life longer, too, new research suggests.
A wide, diverse social network keeps older adults more active and happier, both of which could help them live longer, according to the new University of Texas, Austin study.
As people grow old their lives have a tendency to become more sedentary and solitary.
But physical activity has been shown time and time again to preserve heart and over all health - key factors to a living well for longer.
The first-of-its-kind study found that seniors who interact with lots of different types of people - including friends, family, acquaintances, service providers and even strangers are more likely to be up, out, about and physically active.
Having more interactions with a diverse set of family, friends, acquaintances and strangers keeps seniors more active and healthy, a new University or Texas, Austin, study suggests
Aging is inevitable, but frailty can largely be prevented.
The US Surgeon General recommends that older people get moderate exercise, every day if at all possible.
Nearly 30,000 American adults over 65 die as a direct result of a fall in a year.
And even if they survive the fall, their risks of dementia and death increase in the aftermath.
But physical activity keeps bones and muscles stronger and helps to keep balance and stability intact longer, all of which helps older people to stay on their feet or sustain fewer injuries if they do fall.
The Centers for Disease Control and
