"Longevity" is quickly becoming a buzzword of the current times, with prominent figures advocating for (and advertising!) diets, exercise regimens, medications, and relaxation techniques that promise long and healthy lives. Often overlooked is the crucial role of social relationships in achieving a long and thriving life. In this interactive talk, we will take a look at social connections through the lens of the New Map of Life- Stanford Center on Longevity's initiative to re-imagine the course of very long lives. We will delve into the science of social connections and their importance for our health, learn the difference between Loneliness and Social Isolation, dispel a myth or two about who is at risk, and explore opportunities for fostering relationships in our communities.

As the Stanford Center on Longevity’s Director of Research, Yochai Shavit leads a diverse team of researchers working to advance our understanding of human flourishing across the entire life span and rethink the traditional life course to create a New Map of Life. Yochai received his PhD in Psychology from Stanford University in 2021. He holds an MA in Gerontology from the University of Haifa and a BA in Psychology from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.