In 1938, researchers from Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, embarked on a study that continues to this day to find out: what makes people happy in life?

The researchers gathered health records from 724 people from all over the world, asking detailed questions about their lives at two-year intervals.

As participants entered mid-life and later life, the Harvard study began asking about retirement.

The main challenge people faced in retirement was being unable to replace the social connections that had sustained them for so long at work.

In other words, retirees do not miss working, they miss the people.

One study participant, when asked what he missed about being a doctor after nearly 50 years, answered: “Absolutely nothing about the work itself. I miss the people and the friendships.”

When it comes to retirement, people often stress things like financial concerns, health problems and caregiving.

But people who fare the best in retirement find ways to cultivate connections.

This is where retirement living becomes a sensible option. In November last year, the Retirement Living Council produced the document ‘Better Housing for Better Health – the Care and Cost Effectiveness of Retirement Living’.

The report found residents in retirement communities are: 

  • 15% more physically active.
  • 41% happier, and both physically and mentally healthier.
  • Five times more socially active.
  • Twice as likely to catch up with family or friends.
  • Have reduced levels of depression and loneliness, saving governments almost $5 million in additional healthcare costs.

One of the benefits of retirement village living is a strong sense of community.

Retirement villages offer many opportunities for residents to interact and connect, without living in each other’s pockets, through on-site recreational facilities, community rooms and social activities.

Most villages offer a range of activities within the village such as swimming pools, golf courses, bowling greens and gyms.

In short, villages can help fill the gap for social connection that is essential for staying happy and healthy as we age.