Maintaining an active social life may help delay dementia and reduce its risk. A new study found that regular social interactions could push back dementia onset by up to five years.
Researchers from Rush University in the US tracked 1,923 older adults over nearly seven years. They examined participants’ social habits and cross-referenced dementia cases. The findings revealed a significant difference. Those who engaged in frequent social activities were diagnosed with dementia five years later, on average. This was compared to those who were least social.
Study Links Socializing to Lower Dementia Risk
“This study builds on our earlier research. It showed that social engagement slows cognitive decline in older adults,” said epidemiologist Bryan James from Rush University.
The study analyzed how often participants engaged in various social activities. These included attending religious services, visiting friends, dining out, volunteering, playing games, or taking trips. Researchers also tracked cognitive performance using 21 different tests. They adjusted for key factors like age and physical health to ensure accurate results.
The findings were striking. The most socially active participants were:
- 38% less likely to develop dementia
- 21% less likely to experience mild cognitive impairment
HOW SOCIAL INTERACTION SUPPORTS BRAIN FUNCTION
Engaging in social activities may strengthen neural networks, according to the researchers. “Social interactions challenge older adults to engage in complex interpersonal exchanges. This engagement may help preserve cognitive ability through a ‘use it or lose it’ mechanism,” James explained.
The study does not establish direct cause and effect. But, it aligns with existing research on social isolation and dementia risk. Other factors, like increased physical activity among socially engaged individuals, could also play a role. Even pet companionship has been linked to better brain health.
A PUBLIC HEALTH PRIORITY
The study underscores the importance of raising awareness about dementia prevention. The researchers believe that presenting the impact of lifestyle changes in simple terms can help people understand. For example, a five-year dementia delay can motivate them to take action.
“Our estimates highlight the public health significance of social activity,” the researchers wrote in their paper. “The COVID-19 pandemic has potential negative effects on social engagement. Therefore, it is now critical to develop and test initiatives to encourage social interaction among older adults.”
The study was published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association.
