Lonely people tend to have lower brain volume: A new study on brain health and loneliness

Socially isolated individuals may experience reduced brain volume, according to a recent study on solitude's effects on the brain.

The study, featured in Neurology, reveals a potential correlation between social isolation and brain volume loss among older adults.

Let's find out more.

An unusual test

Specialists at Kyushu University conducted various brain scans and health examinations on almost 9000 participants with an average age above 70.

The findings indicated that people with limited social interactions demonstrated noticeably diminished overall brain volume compared to those who were more sociable.

Notably, regions associated with memory, exhibited lower volumes in socially isolated people.

Additionally, participants experiencing loneliness displayed a higher incidence of white matter lesions—small areas of brain damage.

Seniors shouldn't be isolated

While the testing established an association rather than causation, lead author Dr. Toshiharu Ninomiya emphasized the significance of social support in preventing brain atrophy and the onset of dementia.

Previous research has indicated that engaging with socially stimulating groups among older adults may potentially counteract declines in brain volume, enhance cognitive function, and improve memory skills.

However, it is important to consider the study's limitations, as it primarily focused on older Japanese individuals, potentially limiting the generalizability of the findings to younger populations and individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds.

Nevertheless, the results underscore the potential advantages of interventions aimed at reducing social isolation and fostering social connections to uphold brain health and potentially mitigate the risk of dementia.
 

• Related news:
• seniors
• research
• loneliness
• dementia
• 15 July 2023

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