The study, titled "The Importance of Social Contact on Brain Atrophy among Older Individuals" published in Neurology, indicates that older individuals with limited social contact may have a higher likelihood of experiencing overall brain volume loss and specifically in regions affected by dementia, compared to those with more regular social interaction.
On the other hand, researchers emphasized that the study does not establish a causal relationship between social isolation and brain shrinkage; it solely demonstrates an association.
Social Isolation: A Growing Problem Among Older People
Study author Toshiharu Ninomiya of Kyushu University highlights in the news release the growing concern of social isolation among older adults and suggests that supporting individuals in establishing and maintaining social connections may help prevent brain atrophy and the development of dementia.
Professor Jianfeng Feng of Fudan University also emphasizes the importance of addressing social isolation as a significant public health problem, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, where social isolation has become more prevalent. Identifying socially isolated individuals and providing resources to help them connect within their communities is crucial.
According to the social brain hypothesis, primates developed larger brains to handle their complex social systems. That means the human brain evolved to support social interactions, as being part of a group contributes to improved well-being and life satisfaction.
However, the unfortunate reality is that many people experience loneliness and social isolation, which can significantly impact the brain if it truly evolved for social interaction.
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Lack of Social Contact Linked to Brain Volume Loss
The recent study involved 8,896 participants without dementia who had undergone MRI brain scans and health exams to examine the relationship between social contact and brain volume, Science Daily reported.
Those with lower social contact had significantly lower overall brain volume compared to those with higher social contact. Areas of the brain associated with memory, such as the hippocampus and amygdala, also exhibited lower volumes in socially isolated individuals.
The study accounted for various factors including age, diabetes, smoking, and exercise, to ensure that other variables did not impact brain volume. Socially isolated individuals also displayed more white matter lesions, indicating small areas of brain damage. Symptoms of depression partially explained the link between social isolation and brain volumes, accounting for 15% to 29% of the association.
Although the study does not establish a causal relationship between social isolation and brain atrophy, previous research suggests that exposure to socially stimulating groups among older individuals may prevent brain volume loss and enhance cognitive skills.
However, the study's limitations include its focus on older Japanese participants, which may restrict generalizability to other age groups and ethnicities.
Tackling Social Isolation in Old Age
Building cognitive reserve through activities like learning new skills and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help mitigate the impact of aging on cognitive abilities and mental health, as per PsyPost. While pharmacological treatments for Alzheimer's disease exist, their efficacy and side effects need improvement.
Addressing social isolation, especially among older adults, is crucial for cognitive health. Health authorities should identify and support isolated individuals through social activities. Technology can also play a role in reducing social isolation, particularly for younger generations who are familiar with digital communication.
Social interaction is essential, as studies have linked the size of our social networks to brain regions involved in social cognition and emotion. The optimal size of social groups, referred to as "Dunbar's number," remains a subject of debate and requires further investigation.
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