Good relationships with family and laughter are secrets to happiness, study claims

Research finds 86 per cent of respondents are happy with their 'lot in life'

More than 80 per cent of those polled thought a good relationship with family and friends was 'vital' to happiness (Getty Images/Cultura RF)

A close-knit family, laughter and a good cup of tea are among the secrets to happiness, according to a new poll.

A survey of 2,000 adults found that staying healthy and getting enough sleep are also key ingredients for a good life.

It also found that 83 per cent of respondents considered having a good relationship with family and friends to be “vital” to leading a contented existence.

However, six in 10 said they struggle to see their family as often as they would like.

A quarter only managed to catch up with them once every six months or less.

The polling was carried out to celebrate Silver Sunday, a nationwide event taking place on Sunday 6 October, which aims to tackle loneliness by bringing different generations together.

"We wanted to give people a chance to pause and think about what really makes them smile," said Joan Elliott, managing director of Bupa Care Homes, which commissioned the poll. "It’s interesting to see that our friends, family and wider community all play a key role in our happiness."

She added: “We know it can be hard to maintain these bonds though, especially for older people, which is why we’re holding public events across the country to help people celebrate Silver Sunday.”

Almost half of those polled said that having the chance to meet new people was “important”.

Almost three-quarters of respondents said being part of a supportive community had played a significant role in their overall happiness.

However, more than half wished they were more involved in their community than they are currently.

The survey also found 86 per cent were happy with their lot in life.

More than 80 Bupa homes will open their doors on Sunday, hosting activities including roast dinners and pub quizzes, tea dances and Mad Hatter’s tea parties.

SWNS