# Men's friendship decline as they age

> Experts reveal how aging men lose friends and solutions to rebuild connections.
- Title: Men's friendship decline as they age · Sfchronicle | Shortify
- Summary: Experts reveal how aging men lose friends and solutions to rebuild connections. Aging men face declining friendships due to life changes, but programs like…
- Keywords: men's friendship, friendship decline, men's circle, social health, aging, friendship program, dementia risk, stress reduction, news, local, Men's, friendship
- Source: Sfchronicle — https://sfchronicle.com/health/aging-longevity/article/men-friend-friendship-social-health-22477454.php
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: men's friendship, friendship decline, men's circle, social health, aging, friendship program, dementia risk, stress reduction, news, local
## Men's friendship decline
Aging men face declining friendships due to life changes and reduced social interactions.
## Men's Circle program
Men's Circle offers weekly gatherings for men to discuss personal growth and accountability.
## Health impacts
Lack of close friendships increases dementia, depression, and heart disease risks.
## Data on decline
30 years ago, 55% of men had six close friends; by 2021, only 27% did.
## Pandemic effect
The pandemic worsened men's isolation, especially working-class men who lost social connections.
## Friendship benefits
Strong friendships reduce stress and improve mental health through oxytocin release.
## Real-life example
Onyanga Dean, 59, built lasting friendships through running groups in the Bay Area.
## Actionable steps
Men can invite acquaintances for activities to build new friendships gradually.
## Long-term impact
Men's Circle members report enduring friendships that support personal growth and stability.
## Friendship solutions
Programs like Men's Circle help men form and maintain meaningful connections as they age.
## Key takeaway

Aging men face declining friendships due to life changes, but programs like Men's Circle help form lasting bonds.