The research collection published in the Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society highlights how aging impacts social behavior in various animal species. Studies, including those conducted at the University of Leeds, reveal that older animals, such as red deer and house sparrows, become less sociable as they age. Older female red deer reduce their social interactions to lower competition and minimize the risk of parasite infections. Similarly, aging house sparrows have fewer social connections as their peers die off, leading to a decline in the size of their social networks.
The findings challenge the notion that reduced social interactions in older individuals are negative, suggesting that these changes may actually have benefits. For example, elderly animals may avoid social interactions to protect themselves from the costs of infection, similar to older humans practicing social distancing during the Covid-19 pandemic. By studying wild animal populations, researchers gain insight into how aging shapes societies and the fundamental rules governing social behavior changes that occur with age.
The research spans across various species, demonstrating that aging and social behavior are universal processes with wide-ranging implications. Understanding the diversity of aging and sociality in different animals can shed light on the processes governing human societies. Even common garden birds like house sparrows exhibit changes in social behavior as they age, with older individuals having fewer friendships and lower centrality within the social network, possibly due to the loss of same-age friends.
The studies also extend to insects, with fruit flies showing similar patterns of social aging. The research leader, Professor Amanda Bretman, emphasizes that the social environment can significantly impact lifespan and aging in animals, including those with seemingly simple social structures like insects. By studying fruit flies in the laboratory, researchers can delve into the mechanisms behind social aging, which could lead to interventions to support healthy aging in humans. The research collection highlights how animal systems provide valuable insights into understanding aging societies and the impacts of social environments on lifespan and health.
Overall, the research published in the special issue of the Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society illustrates that aging influences social behavior in a variety of animal species, from red deer to house sparrows and fruit flies. The findings suggest that older animals may reduce social interactions to protect themselves from infections and other risks, demonstrating the adaptive nature of social aging. By studying aging and sociality in different species, researchers aim to illuminate the fundamental rules governing societal changes with age and the impact of social environments on healthy aging. Through animal systems, scientists can expand our understanding of aging societies and potentially develop interventions to support healthy aging in humans.
