Thread by @HirstRj

Whilst I hate preachy posts... if anyone is trying to think of a New Years resolution, try calling your grandparents (or any relative!) at least once a week. 1/4

#KeepInTouch #Ageing #Resolutions #DoSomethingThatMatters

I have been, and still am, completely guilty of falling out of touch at times - everyone gets busy! But working in ageing has made me reflect on how important it is to maintain social relationships as we get older - we will all be there ourselves one day! 2/4

Strong social relationships could be as effective at reducing mortality risk as stopping smoking (50% increased survival journals.plos.org/plosmedicine/a…). You might not think you can save or extend lives, but a 5 minute phone call could make a big difference to someone you love. 3/4

I am so lucky to still have 2 grandparents, and I am sad it wasn’t until this year, when I moved away, that I made a conscious effort to call more often. I will now try to call at least once a week. I am no saint, but just saying.. make a resolution that matters this year. 4/4

PS. This was discussed in @RoseAnnekenny1 2018 lecture on "How to age well"