Lifestyle Men’s Friendships: Issues and Solutions 4/17/2024 | By John Levan Adult males are less likely than women to form and maintain friendships, especially as they age. While it’s easy to blame today’s digital age for the decline in men’s friendships, keeping genuine friendships has been an issue for men long before social media replaced in-person interactions. Although some men keep their friends throughout adulthood, most of them will likely have fewer friends as they age. According to a 2021 survey, only around one in four men have six or more close friends today. Several societal, emotional, and psychological factors can result in a slow but steady erosion of male friendships. Why don’t men’s friendships endure? Here are a few factors making it hard for men to keep friendships. Communication styles Men are typically socialized to be less expressive about their emotions, making them less capable of forming and maintaining close friendships than women. This reluctance to share can contribute to a smaller social network over time. Loss of social circles As men age, they may lose touch with friends due to relocation, interest changes, retirement, or divorce. Losing these social circles can result in fewer opportunities to make new friends or keep existing relationships. Life transitions As men transition from bachelorhood, they often experience significant life changes such as marriage, starting a family, or focusing more on their careers. These changes can lead to new priorities, offering less time and energy to invest in friendships. Social norms Traditional gender roles often prescribe that men should prioritize work and family responsibilities over social connections. This tenet can result in men neglecting their existing friendships and not seeking new ones. Health factors As they age, men may face health challenges that limit their ability to socialize and participate in activities outside the home, such as golf, service organizations, and church. Chronic conditions, mobility issues, or caregiving responsibilities can all affect social interactions. Social isolation Some older men may experience social isolation due to living alone, losing a spouse or partner, or retiring from work. Social isolation can further limit opportunities for socializing and maintaining friendships. Related: How friendships change as we age It’s never too late to make new friends Making friends can be rewarding and valuable for older men. Here are a few suggestions for forging new men’s friendships: Volunteer: Men have many opportunities for community service or volunteer work. These activities help others and allow the men to connect with people who share their interests and values. Join interest groups: Join clubs, classes, or hobby groups related to music, sports, art, gardening, or reading. Once again, this provides opportunities to meet like-minded individuals. Learn and use technology: Social media platforms or online forums related to your interests or the local community can help you connect with people and find social activities or groups. Take classes: Enroll in classes or workshops at local community centers, colleges, or adult education programs. Learning new skills or topics is inexpensive and can introduce you to new people. Attend social events: Social gatherings, community events, church activities, and workshops are excellent places to meet new people and start friendships. Related: The benefits of friendships in senior living communities Strengthen existing relationships Make communication a priority: Regularly contact your friends, whether through phone calls, video chats, or in-person meetings. You can keep the bond strong and the relationship engaging by expressing interest in their lives and sharing updates about your own. Plan activities together: Organize outings, game nights, or shared hobbies with friends. Spending time together in enjoyable activities strengthens bonds. Offer support: Show empathy, help when needed, and be there for your friends during challenging times. By being a pillar of support, you can foster trust and closeness in your relationships, making you feel more connected. Celebrate milestones: Acknowledge milestones such as birthdays, anniversaries, or achievements with your friends. Celebrating together creates positive memories. Share vulnerability: Open up to trusted friends with your feelings, experiences, and challenges. Sharing vulnerabilities can deepen emotional connections and encourage intimacy. Be flexible: Understand that schedules and priorities may change as people age. Be flexible and accommodating when making plans with friends. Seek professional help: If relationship difficulties arise or feelings of loneliness persist, consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor. Professional guidance can offer valuable insights and strategies for improving relationships and well-being. The issues with men’s friendships as they age is multifaceted, encompassing societal expectations, personal priorities, and the challenges of maintaining relationships in a constantly evolving life. Acknowledging this reality is the first step toward stronger social connections. Men can and do forge and maintain more profound, meaningful relationships by actively seeking opportunities for social interaction, redefining masculinity to include vulnerability and emotional openness, and prioritizing friendships. Addressing this issue benefits men’s emotional well-being and contributes to a healthier, more connected society. Related: Female friendships are valuable at any age Read More John Levan Freelance writer John Levan focuses on insurance, finance, and manufacturing as well as senior living topics. Based in Pennsylvania, he earned his Bachelor of Arts in English from Alvernia University and Master of Arts in humanities from California State University, Dominguez Hills.