What if the key to brain health was as simple as playing bingo with friends? Scientists are discovering the remarkable link between social connections and dementia prevention.
By Azeeza Omowumi Nasir-Raji
Is there a secret to staying sharp as we age? New research suggests that the answer to stronger brain health might lie in something as simple as visiting friends, attending a party, or playing bingo. A recent study from Rush University Medical Center has found a compelling link between frequent social activity and a reduced risk of dementia in older adults.
The power of social connections
Staying socially connected is important for our emotional well-being, but it turns out it’s crucial for our cognitive health, too. This study, published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association, reveals that older adults who engage in regular social activities may delay the onset of dementia by as much as five years! That’s a significant amount of time, potentially making the difference between enjoying a vibrant, independent life and facing the challenges of cognitive decline.
Inside the brain health study
The researchers followed nearly 2,000 older adults for an average of five years, tracking their social activities and cognitive function. Participants filled out questionnaires detailing how often they participated in activities like dining out, attending social events, volunteering, and visiting friends or family. What they found was striking: those who were the most socially active had a 38 percent lower risk of developing dementia compared to their least social counterparts.
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Why does this happen?
While the exact mechanisms are still being investigated, scientists believe that social interaction strengthens the neural circuits in our brains. Think of it like exercising a muscle—the more you use it, the stronger it gets. Social behavior involves complex interpersonal exchanges, which activate areas of the brain responsible for thinking and memory. As Dr. Bryan James, the study’s lead researcher, puts it, “Social activity challenges older adults to participate in complex interpersonal exchanges, which could promote or maintain efficient neural networks in a case of ‘use it or lose it.’”
More than just bingo
The good news is that “social activity” encompasses a wide range of interactions. It’s not just about formal events or structured activities. Everyday interactions, like having a conversation with a neighbor, joining a book club, or even playing games with grandchildren, can all contribute to a more socially active lifestyle that promotes brain health. The key is to engage in activities that involve meaningful social interaction and connection.
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A community-level solution
The implications of this brain health research go beyond individual actions. The study researchers suggest that promoting social activity could be a powerful community-level intervention for reducing the burden of dementia. By creating opportunities for older adults to connect and engage with others, we can potentially delay or even prevent the onset of this debilitating condition, leading to significant economic benefits and improved quality of life for countless individuals.
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Looking ahead
This study is an important step forward in our understanding of how social activity impacts brain health. However, more research is needed to fully understand the underlying mechanisms and to develop effective interventions to promote social engagement in older adults. In the meantime, the message is clear: staying socially active is not just enjoyable, it’s essential for healthy aging.
This study was published in the peer-reviewed journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia.
Reference
Chen, Y., Grodstein, F., Capuano, A., Wang, T., Bennett, D. A., & James, B. D. (2025). Late-life social activity and subsequent risk of dementia and mild cognitive impairment. Alzheimer’s & Dementia, 21(1), e14316. https://doi.org/10.1002/alz.14316
About the Author
Azeeza Omowumi Nasir-Raji is a third-year medical student with a passion for both medicine and literature. She holds a special place in her heart for feline friends and enjoys cozy moments with chamomile tea or a captivating movie.
