Spending time with loved ones could be one of the best ways to protect your brain from dementia, according to new research.
Scientists at Newcastle University recently discovered that older men who stay socially active can slash their frailty risk by nearly a third.
But what effects can staying connected have on our brains? According to neurologist Dr Steven Allder from Re: Cognition Health, regular social interaction can also help preserve cognitive function. It may even lower a person's dementia risk.
"Social interaction stimulates the brain, much like mental exercise, keeping neural circuits active and adaptable," he explained, highlighting how being social forms a crucial part of dementia prevention.
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The groundbreaking study tracked more than 2,000 men over 65 for eight years, examining their social habits in detail.
Researchers asked participants about time with loved ones, volunteering activities, club memberships, holidays, and even reading habits.
The results were striking. Men who maintained high levels of social engagement from the start showed a 31 per cent lower risk of becoming frail, while those who increased their social activities during the study period saw their risk drop by 23 per cent.
As for the brain benefits, ongoing stimulation encourages the formation of new neural pathways, a process known as neuroplasticity, Dr Allder explained.
'Social interaction stimulates the brain, much like mental exercise'
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When we chat, listen, and share stories, we stimulate multiple brain regions simultaneously – particularly the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, which are essential for memory formation.
It's essentially like giving your brain a "workout", activating areas responsible for language, memory, attention, and emotion all at once.
This constant stimulation encourages new neural pathways to form, helping "preserve mental sharpness".
As a result, older adults with frequent social contact tend to perform better on memory and cognitive tests.
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Beyond memory, social engagement supports problem-solving, attention, and decision-making skills – all vital for maintaining independence as we age.
Dr Allder also pointed to the mood-boosting effects of an active social life. Face-to-face interactions trigger the release of "happy hormones" like oxytocin and endorphins, which naturally lower stress levels and promote relaxation.
This emotional support acts as a buffer against chronic stress, which can damage cognitive performance.
In a similar vein, older adults who maintain active social lives report fewer symptoms of depression and anxiety, plus greater life satisfaction. This is due to the release of "mood-enhancing neurotransmitters" such as serotonin and oxytocin.
Dr Allder concluded by stressing the importance of seeking connection rather than succumbing to social isolation.
He said: "Regular interaction with friends, family, and community provides emotional support, reduces loneliness, and reinforces a sense of belonging, all of which are essential for psychological well-being.
"People who maintain close relationships and engage frequently in social or community activities are more likely to stay physically active, mentally stimulated and emotionally balanced, all of which contribute to long-term brain health.
"While socialising alone cannot prevent dementia, it forms a crucial part of a holistic prevention strategy alongside a balanced diet, regular exercise, good sleep and lifelong learning."
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