Five social clues worth knowing about longevity

Over 23 years, positive friendship quality predicted better self-rated health and fewer depressive symptoms, not directly lower mortality.

More social and community ties, including friends, relatives, and group affiliations, were linked to lower mortality over nine years.

Volunteering at least 100 hours annually was associated with 44% lower four-year mortality, but more hours were not consistently better.

Community trust was linked to better health and sometimes lower mortality; evidence does not prove it extends lifespan.