Building a Better Brain: Social Engagement

Emerging research shows that maintaining social connections as we age is important for our brain health. Humans evolved to be in community to survive. Connecting with others is wired into our DNA which means that isolation and loneliness have physical health consequences, including increased risk for cardiovascular disease and dementia.

Scientists are still trying to figure out the connection between social engagement and dementia risk. Some believe that chronic isolation increases stress. Too much stress, it is thought, can cause a buildup of chemicals in the brain that damage the hippocampus, where memories form. Others think social isolation impacts cognitive reserve, which is the ability for the brain to deal with the damage caused by amyloid buildup in the brain.

As we age, it can become more difficult to stay socially engaged, but doing so remains important. Maintaining friendships later in life can reduce risk of dementia, depression, physical decline, and more. Below are a few tips to increase meaningful social engagement.

Start Small

Take small steps to connect with other people. Practice random acts of kindness such as holding the door for a stranger or smiling at someone as you pass by. Each small act matters in engaging with other people, even if it feels insignificant at the time. 9If you want to try more intentional connection with one person, consider scheduling a recurring phone call or meet up once per month at the same time on the same day. That way the commitment is not overwhelming and allows flexibility if you want to talk more frequently.

Reach Out to Those You Already Know 

Increasing your social connections does not mean you need to find a new set of friends. Instead, consider connecting with those already in your social circle, whether that be family, neighbors, or existing acquaintances. You might also rekindle old relationship by writing a letter to someone you lost touch with, calling a family member, or meeting a friend for coffee. Even if you have not spoken in a while, it will likely be easier to pick back up because of existing familiarity with the other person.

Focus on Quality, Not Quantity 

When trying to increase social connection, it is easy to think we need a lot of new friendships to build brain health. That is not true. The key is consistency and continuing to meet with people you connect with. Investing in meaningful relationships, even just one or two people, can have a more lasting impact than expanding your social circle.

Sources

1. Bilodeau, K. (2021, September 8). 3 ways to build brainboosting social connections. Harvard Health Publishing. health.harvard.edu/blog/3-ways-to-build-brain-boostingsocial-connections-202109082585
2. Fisher Center for Alzheimerʼs Research Foundation. (2025, December 24). Social interaction may be key to keeping the brain young. ALZinfo. alzinfo.org/articles/ prevention/social-interaction-may-be-key-to-keepingthe-brain-young/
3. Neuropsychology Partners. (n.d.). Why social connection matters for brain health and dementia. Neuropsychology LLC. neuropsychologyllc.com/why-social-connectionmatters-for-brain-health-dementia/
4. Global Council on Brain Health. (2017). The brain and social connectedness: GCBH recommendations on social engagement and brain health. AARP. aarp.org/ content/dam/aarp/health/brain_health/2017/02/gcbhsocial-engagement-report-english-aarp.doi.10.264192Fpia.00015.001.pdf