Importance of Friendship Month

It is a fact that having good friends can bring positive energy according to new research that found more than half of people aged 50+ (55%) feel happier from having a friendship and 46% feel a sense of belonging.

The findings come from the Oddfellows, a non-profit friendly society which provides older adults with opportunities to create new friendships. They have explored the phenomena of  ‘frenergy’ – the emotional and psychological energy derived from both existing friendships and ones we are yet to make.

In fact, it’s the over 50s that are showing it’s never too late to make new friendships and the positive impact they have on their lives. An impressive 63% say their energy is positively impacted when they help a stranger, with a further 59% of quinquagenarians seeing their energy levels increase if they see someone do something kind for others.

Aston spoke to friendship expert & psychologst Dr Veronica Lamarche & Jane Nelson, CEO of The Oddfellows.