### Instruction:
Is it important to have friends?

### Response:
Yes, it is important to have friends. Friends can provide camaraderie, support, guidance and encourage you to think in new and different ways by challenging your beliefs and assumptions. Many people have different types or categories of friends. For example, some friends may be individuals with whom specific activities are shared such as music or sports. Other friends may be individuals from whom you seek advice on complex personal decisions. Another category or type of friend may be one or more individuals with whom you can share almost anything without fear of embarrassment or being judged. It is particularly important to have an active social life as one gets older. Positive social interactions help older adults avoid loneliness and stay healthy.