New research has found that the happiest Americans are older Americans, countering the stereotype that older people are often lonely and depressed.

Researchers at the University of Chicago examined interviews from about 28,000 people ages 13 to 88 and found that older people, in general, have learned to be more content with their lives than younger people, leading to greater feelings of happiness. The odds of being happy rose 5 percent with every 10 years of age.

The researchers also found that being social played a large role in how happy or unhappy older adults felt. There are many ways to help an aging loved one remain social and involved, such as exercise classes for older adults, walking groups and volunteering.

OASIS is a national nonprofit organization that offers arts, humanities, wellness and volunteer opportunities for older adults in 26 cities across the country. Click here to learn more.