We all know how much better we feel after a good chat with a friend or loved one. Whether it’s sharing worries, having a laugh, or simply knowing someone is there to listen, that connection can make a world of difference.
Now, new research confirms what many of us have long suspected: emotional support isn’t just comforting in the moment — it can actually protect our mental health as we age.
Depression currently affects more than 25 million older adults worldwide, raising the risk of dementia, heart disease, and a poorer quality of life. But a major international study led by Dr. Suraj Samtani, published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, has found that having someone to lean on is linked to significantly lower levels of depression, both now and in the years ahead.
The study, which analysed data from almost 24,000 people aged 54 to 99 across 11 countries including Australia, shows just how vital emotional connection is for wellbeing in later life.
“Our study shows that emotional support, more than practical help with daily tasks, plays a powerful protective role against depression in older age,” said lead author Dr. Suraj Samtani and Post-Doctoral Fellow at UNSW’s Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA).
“It highlights how crucial it is for older people to feel heard, understood and emotionally connected to others.”
While practical help—such as assistance with daily tasks or offering transport—certainly has its place, the study found it doesn’t protect against depression in the same way. For some, needing that kind of help may even stir feelings of helplessness or a loss of independence.
“It’s not that practical help isn’t valuable,” explained Dr. Samtani, “but it doesn’t appear to protect against depression in the same way. In fact, for some people, needing help with everyday tasks may increase feelings of helplessness or loss of independence.”
The researchers suggest that the findings highlight the need for public health initiatives to focus on building emotional connections — whether through community groups, digital platforms, or intergenerational programs — as a way to protect mental health in ageing populations.
So, how can you build those vital emotional connections? Here are some simple ideas:
Join a group or club: Whether it’s a book club, gardening group, dance class, or community service group, these gatherings are a great way to stay active and connected.
Volunteer: Giving back not only helps others but also provides a sense of purpose and new friendships.
Attend local events: Community markets, fairs, and cultural events are perfect opportunities to meet new people and socialise.
Take a course: Learning something new is stimulating and a chance to meet like-minded people.
And for those looking to connect with peers right across Australia, the Starts at 60 Meet Ups are a wonderful way to meet like-minded over-60s in your own neighbourhood. Hosted by volunteers, these monthly catch-ups usually take place over coffee or lunch at the same location each month, giving you the chance to build friendships and enjoy good company close to home.
IMPORTANT LEGAL INFO This article is of a general nature and FYI only, because it doesn’t take into account your personal health requirements or existing medical conditions. That means it’s not personalised health advice and shouldn’t be relied upon as if it is. Before making a health-related decision, you should work out if the info is appropriate for your situation and get professional medical advice.