You know I'm committed to the importance of social connection (a posse) and of exercise to fight off premature aging. That’s because having a supportive posse can keep you many years younger and physical activity transforms your physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being.

And now we know if you do them together, they reinforce each other — and you get even greater benefits.

Researchers at Texas A&M University performed a deep dive into studies on health behaviors and found that an active social life and supportive relationships encourage people to stay physically active. And physically active people tend to have more supportive and health-promoting social interactions.

That’s a win-win for sure.

Unfortunately, only around 28% of older Americans get the recommended minimum 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity, or a combination of both each week.

And a 2023 poll shows that 37% of people ages 50 to 80 years old experience loneliness, while 34% report feeling socially isolated at least some of the time.

If that's you, take steps to increase both your physical activity and your social interactions at the same time with a wide assortment of activities available through AmeriCorps Seniors (800-942-2677), America's Natural and Cultural Resources Volunteer Portal at volunteer.gov, and Experience Corps/AARP Foundation at experiencecorps.org.