Why are friends so important? A new AARP Friendship Study gives a clear answer. AARP published the study on March 6, 2026, using a national online survey of 1,488 U.S. adults done from October 23 to November 10, 2025. In that study, 95% of adults said friends are essential for a happy and healthy life. In 2019, that number was 90%, so friendship seems even more important now. (aarp.org)

But there is also a problem. AARP found that many adults have fewer close friends than they did five years ago. People also meet friends less often in person and use texting and social media more. Many adults say technology helps them stay in touch, but they also worry that texting can replace real conversation and make friendship feel less genuine. Younger adults, who use more technology and meet less face to face, report stronger feelings of isolation and lack of companionship. (aarp.org)

Another recent AARP report shows why this matters. In December 2025, AARP said 40% of U.S. adults age 45 and older were lonely. That is higher than 35% in both 2010 and 2018. The report also said lonely adults were more likely to say they have fewer friends now than five years ago. In other words, when friendship gets weaker, loneliness can grow. (press.aarp.org)

This is not only a U.S. story. The World Health Organization said in June 2025 that about 1 in 6 people around the world are affected by loneliness. WHO also said strong social connection can improve health and lower the risk of early death. The good news is that small actions can help. The U.S. Surgeon General’s guidance says people should make time for relationships, be fully present in conversation, help others, join community groups, and ask for help when loneliness feels heavy. So a simple message, a short phone call, or coffee with a friend may be more powerful than we think. (who.int)