Can Having Strong Social Ties Reduce Dementia Risk?
Staying socially connected as we age may help protect our brains and lower the chances of developing dementia. Recent research suggests that people with strong social bonds and active social lives tend to have better cognitive health and a lower risk of dementia compared to those who are socially isolated or lonely.
A study published in 2025 found that older adults who maintained robust social connections had better cognitive function and a decreased risk of dementia[13]. The researchers discovered that persistent loneliness in people over 70, especially women, was linked to a higher chance of developing dementia and cognitive decline[18].
Interestingly, the study showed different effects for men and women. For men, newly developing feelings of loneliness were associated with a 52% higher risk of dementia. For women, ongoing feelings of loneliness over time were connected to more than double the risk of dementia[8].
But it’s not just about avoiding loneliness. Being socially active seems to provide real benefits for brain health. One analysis found that people who engaged in frequent social activities had a 38% lower risk of dementia and a 21% reduced risk of mild cognitive impairment[16].
The positive effects of socializing may be quite significant. Some research indicates that having an active social life could delay the onset of dementia by up to five years[16]. That’s a substantial difference that could greatly impact quality of life as we age.
Experts believe social connections help our brains in several ways. Socializing provides mental stimulation, which may strengthen cognitive abilities. It can also reduce stress and depression, which are risk factors for dementia. Additionally, people with strong social ties may be more likely to engage in other healthy behaviors that protect brain function[10].
There are many ways to stay socially active as we get older. Joining clubs, volunteering, taking classes, and regularly connecting with family and friends can all help maintain those important social bonds. Even using technology like video calls to stay in touch with loved ones may be beneficial[11].
For those already experiencing cognitive decline, social engagement remains important. Programs that provide cognitive stimulation and social interaction for people with dementia have shown promise in improving quality of life and potentially slowing disease progression[11].
While socializing isn’t a guaranteed way to prevent dementia, the evidence suggests it plays an important role in maintaining cognitive health as we age. Making an effort to build and maintain strong social connections could be a key part of keeping our brains healthy in later life.
