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Variety Is the Spice of Late Life: Social Integration and Daily Activity

Author

Listed:
  • Karen L Fingerman
  • Meng Huo
  • Susan T Charles
  • Debra J Umberson
  • J Scott Brown

Abstract

ObjectivesSocial integration (involvement with a diverse array of social ties) has been linked to positive outcomes including better physical health. Research has not investigated whether encounters with diverse social ties enhance individuals’ daily behaviors. The objectives of this study were to assess whether social ties connect individuals to more diverse daily behaviors, physical activity, and nonsedentary time as well as more positive mood.MethodOlder adults (aged 65+, n = 313) provided information about their 10 closest social ties. Then they completed ecological momentary assessment (EMA) surveys every 3 hr for 5–6 days where they reported on social encounters and behaviors. They also wore Actical accelerometers to objectively measure physical activity.ResultsMultilevel models revealed that encounters with a greater variety of social ties was associated with engaging in a greater variety of behaviors, more objectively measured physical activity, and a smaller proportion of time spent sedentary. Encounters with weak ties/peripheral social ties accounted for this increased activity (compared to being alone or with close friends or family). Moreover, involvement with diverse ties or diverse behaviors was associated with better mood.DiscussionFindings are discussed in terms of social engagement theory, network diversity, and the benefits of weak ties.

Suggested Citation

  • Karen L Fingerman & Meng Huo & Susan T Charles & Debra J Umberson & J Scott Brown, 2020. "Variety Is the Spice of Late Life: Social Integration and Daily Activity," The Journals of Gerontology: Series B, The Gerontological Society of America, vol. 75(2), pages 377-388.
    • Handle: RePEc:oup:geronb:v:75:y:2020:i:2:p:377-388.
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    File URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1093/geronb/gbz007
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    Cited by:

    1. Rassaby, Madeleine & Shakya, Holly B. & Fowler, James H. & Oveis, Christopher & Sieber, William J. & Jain, Sonia & Stein, Murray B. & Taylor, Charles T., 2024. "Application of an egocentric social network approach to examine changes in social connections following treatment for anxiety and depression: A novel measurement tool for clinical trials research?," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 350(C).
    2. Frauke Meyer-Wyk & Susanne Wurm, 2024. "The role of social network diversity in self-perceptions of aging in later life," European Journal of Ageing, Springer, vol. 21(1), pages 1-15, December.

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