Did you know that research has shown that loneliness plays a role in cognitive decline?

Studies have shown that social isolation can have a negative effect on a person’s cognitive function. There are several ways to slow cognitive decline that often comes with the natural aging process. One of the ways to do so is by maintaining a healthy social life. This can look several different ways depending on your lifestyle.

Actively socializing throughout your week is key to maintaining healthy brain function. Dementia is a complex condition characterized by a decline in cognitive function, memory loss, and impaired thinking abilities. It is primarily caused by neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, or other underlying neurological conditions. Loneliness can potentially increase a person’s likelihood for cognitive decline in a few different ways.

Loneliness is often caused by limited engagement in social activities which can lead to reduced cognitive stimulation. Lack of mental engagement and stimulation may contribute to a decline in cognitive abilities over time. Regular social interactions, on the other hand, provide cognitive stimulation and help maintain cognitive function. The feeling of long term loneliness may also have an impact on lifestyle choices that can indirectly impact dementia risk. For example, individuals experiencing loneliness may be more prone to unhealthy habits such as a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, lack of exercise, and inadequate sleep—all of which have been associated with an increased risk of dementia. These lifestyle impacts can also influence a person’s cardiovascular health. Poor diet, lack of exercise, and sleep can cause hypertension, obesity, and other physical ailments that can negatively affect the brain.

A few ways to maintain a healthy social life could include the following:

• Have regular video and phone calls with family and friends.
• Schedule time to eat meals with other people, either in your home or at a restaurant.
• Play organized card games (Bridge, Canasta, Rummy) offered at local community centers in your area.
• Take a walk with a friend or family member around your neighborhood.
• Join a local tennis or pickleball team.
• Join or create a book club.

Please note that while loneliness may play an important role in a person’s increased chance for dementia, it is not the sole cause. Dementia and other neurological diseases are complex and multifactorial conditions that are influenced by various genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.