Can social interaction predict cognitive decline?

A recent study concludes that social interaction might be more than just a pleasant pastime; it might help doctors predict an individual’s risk of cognitive decline and, perhaps, dementia. How does social interaction influence cognitive decline? Cognitive decline refers to a general reduction in mental abilities over time. It affects many people as they age and, in some cases, can lead to dementia . As the average age of the population rises, an increasing number of people are likely to experience cognitive decline. A group of researchers from Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, MA, are interested in the potential role that social interaction might play. Specifically, their most recent study looked at whether there is an interaction between levels of social activity, cognitive performance, and the amount of beta-amyloid in the brain, which is a neurological hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease . Cognitive decline and sociability To investigate, the scientists followed 217 older adults involved in the Harvard Aging Brain Study . At the beginning of the study, participants were aged 63–89 and showed no cognitive deficits. The authors followed the group for 3 years. Each participant completed a questionnaire that ascertained their levels of social interaction; this included meeting family and friends, religious activities, and volunteer work. The researchers also measured levels of beta-amyloid in each participant’s brain. As expected, there was significant variability, with some people having much higher levels, putting them at increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s. The authors published their findings in The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry . Although earlier studies have shown a relationship between social engagement and cognitive decline, scientists have not fleshed out the relationship between these two factors and levels of beta-amyloid in the brain. A complex picture emerges Overall, the authors found no relationship between social interaction and cognitive […]

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