The importance of social ties in later life

[...]the survey uses a “smart” approach to measuring functioning networks, asking in the first instance to name “confidants” with whom they discussed important matters. While we fully concur with this recommendation, we also suggest a realistic approach: for many of older persons with these networks, moving toward another network type will be extremely difficult. [...]we suggest to start encouraging social involvement already in “younger” cohorts of older people. Opportunities to meet people and use multipurpose sites foster contacts and intergenerational connections (Phillipson, 2011). [...]it may be argued that improving local surroundings may also influence the quality of social networks for these specific older persons.