Peer Relationships In Late Adulthood

The effects of peer relationships on development in late adulthood are impressive. Typically, those older adults that face multiple challenges, such as decrease in finances, declining health, loss of loved ones, or relocation to a facility to name a few, are more at risk for social isolation. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and in turn render them higher risk for poor physical and mental health, which makes it harder for them to get out and connect with others, which usually leads to further decline in health, which ultimately may take their life. Likewise, older adults who have substantial social support and maintain meaningful relationships are usually happier and healthier and live longer.
In referencing Capezuti’s The Encyclopedia of Elder Care, the difference between social isolation and loneliness is clarified. Capezuti identifies which older adults may be at higher risk for social isolation and how they may advance to a state of poor health without intervention. Also, Capezuti offers suggestions for proper assessment, prevention strategies, and daily physical and emotional care. Her informative analysis of social isolation shows evidence of a negative effect on mental and physical health in the absence
The behaviors they studied were dental visits, physical activity, smoking, and alcohol consumption. The social relationships they studied were number of close friends and marital status. The findings support the correlation between meaningful social activity and mental/physical wellness. The respondents that reported many close friends and/or in a marital relationship with a live in partner showed a healthier lifestyle, as evidenced by, a higher frequency of dental visits, physical activity, non-smokers, and lower or no intake