Health Benefits of Friendship: Quiz

​One large-scale study found that frequent social activity reduced cognitive decline in older adults by an average of 70%, compared with their more socially isolated peers, showing the powerful protective effect of social engagement on brain health.

​While positive interactions are beneficial, negative interactions, such as rejection or lack of empathy, can accelerate cognitive decline, making the quality of social relationships important.

​There are several ways to build friendships, including volunteering or joining community groups, religious organizations and online communities. These environments provide opportunities to connect with others who share similar interests.

Friends may provide different viewpoints and fresh perspectives, which can help people think about problems in new ways and cope more effectively with stress.