A helpful neighbor will loan you items when in need, feed your dog while your away, and also protect you from serious ailments, like a heart attack.
After tracking more than 5,000 American adults, ranging in age from 51 to 105, who had no previous heart issues, researchers from the University of Michigan found a clear connection between “perceived neighborhood social cohesion” and the risk of heart attack.
The study asked its participants to rate statements from 1 to 7. Questions asked ranged from “I really feel part of this area”, “If you were in trouble, there are lots of people in this area who would help you.”
Researchers followed the participants after a four-year period, and they monitored them for heart attacks. They concluded that an increased sense of belonging lowered the risk of heart attacks.
They believe the reduced stress that is gained from these factors is responsible for the health benefits.