b'The Importance of ConnectionConnection to others can help us develop a sense of purpose. We know this is true for young people whose parents and teachers can help them develop a sense of purpose. HRS research shows the same may be true for older adults. People who report greater positive support and less negative support in their social relationships have an increased sense of life purpose over time.55% of adults who talk with their children 1-2+ times per week:75%40% talk via the phone talk via social media (i.e., Skype, Facebook, etc.)Source: HRS, 2018StressStress is an inevitable and basic part of life. HRS measures stressful events and circumstances as well as peoples response to stress.Stress can take many forms. Some stress comes from outside events, like a job loss or the death of a loved one. Stress can also come from inside, from how we think or feel about things. Both kinds of stress can bring about physical reactions, similar to what occurs after an infection.56Financial StressThe Great Recession of 20072009 was a source of stress mainly because of financial stress. HRS research compared changes in sleep experienced by Early, Mid, and Late baby boomers during and after the recession. Mid and Late baby boomers had more sleep problems over this time compared to Early baby boomers. This difference was explained by Mid and Late baby boomers experiencing greater financial stress in the aftermath of the recession. The difference between cohorts was more marked among women.57NeighborhoodWhere we live can also be a source of stress or it can be a resource for us. How we feel about our neighborhood can also change. People who grew to feel over time that their neighbors were trustworthy and helpful were less lonely and perceived more support from friends.5825'