Lydia Li comments on a new British study of the connection between social contacts and well-being among middle-aged men and women. She says family relationships may be more important for men than women around midlife, but that “friendship is a good investment” for women, in particular. “Middle-aged people often have to cope with multiple demands and have limited time for themselves,” Li said. “But it is worthwhile to spare time and effort to expand and nurture relationships.”

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