PAC Lab Article Written By Brittany Armstrong
Ever heard the saying, “Use it or lose it”? It turns out that this old motto is pretty accurate when it comes to keeping our brains healthy. One of the best ways to keep your mind sharp as you age is to stay socially active. Let’s dive into why chatting with friends and staying connected might be a defense against dementia.
Keeps Your Brain Busy. When you’re socially active, you’re constantly using your brain. From remembering names and faces to keeping up with conversations and understanding social cues, these activities help keep your mind sharp. Research published in Cognitive and Behavioral Neurology found that people who are socially active tend to have better cognitive performance (Fratiglioni, et al., 2017). Regular social interaction may help maintain brain function by providing ongoing mental stimulation.
Reduces Stress. Being with friends and family can lift your mood and reduce stress. High stress can damage your brain over time, leading to inflammation and increased risk of cognitive decline. Research published in JAMA Psychiatry shows that strong social support can buffer the effects of stress and maintain cognitive function (Zautra, et al., 2020). Participating in social activities may help protect your brain.
Boosts Mental Health. Mental health and cognitive health are closely intertwined. Social engagement can improve mood and reduce depression and anxiety, both of which are linked to a higher risk of dementia. Research published in The Lancet Psychiatry found that people with robust social networks are less likely to experience depression (Roberts et al., 2019). Maintaining social connections may contribute to better cognitive health by enhancing overall well-being. Social interactions can make you feel happier and more connected, which is good for your overall mental health. And a happy mind is a healthier mind!
Facilitates Learning. Social interactions often involve learning new things and adapting to new situations, which helps keep the brain flexible and adaptable. Research published in Neuropsychology Review suggests that engaging in diverse social activities and learning new skills helps preserve cognitive function and protects against dementia (Schofield, et al., 2021). By consistently challenging the brain, we may be able to enhance cognitive resilience and reduce the risk of cognitive decline as we age.
Social engagement is a powerful tool for maintaining cognitive health and reducing the risk of dementia. By keeping your brain active, managing stress, boosting mental health, and facilitating learning, staying connected with others offers a versatile approach to brain health. Socializing provides a fun and effective way to help keep your mind sharp and resilient as you age. So, get out there, stay connected, and enjoy the company of others. Your brain will thank you for it!
