Here’s how your social life could affect your dementia risk.
Dementia and brain disorders are getting a lot of attention these days.
And for good reason.
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About1 in 10Americans over 65 have dementia.
Its important to understand that the changes in the brain that lead to dementia begin decades beforesymptomsshow up.
And there are manythings you’ve got the option to do to help prevent dementia.
Notgetting enough quality sleepcan also increase your risk of dementia.
All of these habits also influence factors that can raise dementia risk, likehigh blood pressure,high cholesterolanddiabetes.
But theres another factor that increases the risk of dementia that might surprise youloneliness.
How Was This Study Conducted & What Did It Find?
This study was a meta-analysis, which reviews studies previously done on the topic of loneliness and dementia.
The researchers looked for certain criteria, so not all studies on loneliness and dementia were included.
In the end, 21 studies were included, adding up to over 600,000 participants.
The results were clear: Loneliness increases the risk of developing dementia by 31%.
How Does This Apply to Real Life?
And the neuropathological changes in the brain start decades before symptoms show up.
Lonelinessthe dissatisfaction with social relationshipsmay impact how you are functioning cognitively and in daily life.
Its also important to understand what loneliness is.
Its not the same as being alone.
Some people enjoy their alone time and dont feel lonely.
On the other hand, you might be in a house or room filled with people and feel lonely.
If you are feeling lonely, there are things you might do to help yourself.
If youre not lonely but know of someone who is, reach out to them regularly.
It might be the motivation they need to do more for themselves.
The Bottom Line
This meta-analysis found that loneliness is associated with a 31% increase in dementia.
If you feel you dont have that in your life already, find ways to make connections.
National Institutes of Health.
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.Dementias.
doi: 10.1038/s44220-024-00328-9
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Loneliness.
National Institutes of Health.
National Institute on Aging.Loneliness and social isolationtips for staying connected.
