Benefits of age-diverse social worlds: cognitive functioning, positive emotional experiences, and life expectancy

Americans live in largely age-segregated worlds. The aims of this study are to (1) characterize the age composition of individuals' social networks and daily social interactions and (2) investigate cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between age diversity metrics and participant outcomes: fluid cognitive ability, emotional well-being, and mortality.

In Study 1, N = 309 participants aged 25-85 reported on the age of each member in their social network and completed an experience sampling protocol (6 times per day for 10 days), in which they reported on the age of their most recent social interaction partner. In Study 2, we examine longitudinal data (N = 184, Wave 1; N = 191, Wave 2; N = 178, Wave 3; 5 years between waves) from participants aged 18-94 who followed a similar protocol, with mortality outcomes assessed over a 13-year follow-up period.

We found that participants reported the most social network partners and interactions with people close to them in age. Participants reported the most positive experiences with children and older adults. Positive associations between age diversity and fluid cognitive ability, but not emotional well-being, were consistently observed. Participants with more age-diverse networks and interactions were more likely to have survived the 13-year observation period.

Findings highlight potential benefits associated with having a wide variety of ages represented in one's social world. Age-diverse social environments may support cognitive functioning across adulthood and longevity. Encouraging intergenerational connection may be a promising avenue for promoting healthy aging.