It turns out all those dinner parties might actually be good for your health. A recent study reveled that good friends impact your health as you age.

The study, conducted at Northwestern University found that some elderly people credited their longevity and good health to fulfilling social lives — and they could be right. Researchers, found a notable link between brain health and positive relationships.

The study looked at 50 elderly participants, periodically, over the course of nine years. The study looked at 31 “SuperAgers” — men and women over 80 who have memories comparable of those two to three decades younger then them — and 19 elderly folks with average cognitive abilities for their age. Every few years, the participants were asked to fill out surveys, take neuropsychological tests, brain scans and neurological examinations, among other evaluations.

Of the 42-item survey on their psychological well-being, the greatest difference between SuperAgers and their peers was that they mentioned having warm, trusting friendships. All of the other sections of the survey were identical or very similar to those of their peers.

Previous research showed that older adults who value friendship, even over family, benefited from greater physical and mental health.

The study’s author, William J. Chopik wrote, “There is now a large body of research supporting the idea that close relationships enhance health and well-being across the lifespan.” We get to choose are friends, which means that we trust they will influence us in positive ways, Chopik writes.

And it makes sense. We allow friends to influence what we eat, how we dress, when we drink and when we work out. Without friends, we’re more at risk for a slew of diseases like heart disease, arthritis, dementia and Type 2 diabetes.

No matter how hectic life gets, remember it’s important to prioritize those coffee dates, boozy brunches and nights out on the town with your group of guy or gal pals — doctor’s orders.


Also see, the sneaky calories you’re slipping into your diet. 

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Meghan is a full-time writer exploring the fun facts behind food. She lives a healthy lifestyle but lives for breakfast, dessert and anything with marinara. She’s thrown away just as many meals as she’s proud of.