A healthy lifestyle is a social lifestyle: The vital link between social connection and health outcomes

Abstract

Social connection impacts physical health in a variety of ways, including longevity. A diverse and robust body of evidence demonstrates the importance of social connection as a key element of lifestyle relevant to health. Among this evidence, data illustrate the mechanisms linking social connection to health, emphasizing how aspects of social connection impact traditional behavioral lifestyle-related activities directly and indirectly. The evolving landscape of social engagement through digital technologies further suggests important implications for one's social lifestyle on population health. This evidence points to the importance of considering how social connection impacts health across the lifespan and the need for policy, programming, and other strategies as part of prevention and mitigation efforts to improve social health.