We’ve known for quite a long time that sensory input is critical to keeping our brains healthy and functioning. One important source of that input is social engagement. We also know that one of the most concerning health perils that accompanied Covid was the social isolation of many of our most vulnerable older adults who were especially at risk of the ravages of Covid. So it’s not surprising that there have been physical and emotional consequences from this social distancing. Moreover, new research outlines the increased risk of dementia that results from social isolation. 

First, The Commonwealth Fund recently published an analysis of the fallout from the social isolation of older adults during the pandemic. It reports a significant jump in the percentage of older adults feeling isolated after the pandemic, creating not only emotional distress but also exacerbating existing health problems (and even potentially contributing to early mortality.) As the analysis makes clear, “Social distancing was an effective approach to slowing COVID-19 transmission — especially among a population at increased risk of infection — but any resulting feelings of isolation may have contributed to new health and social risks for this medically vulnerable group.” Further, we know that this sense of isolation not only worsens physical and mental health but then that worsened state of health can heighten feelings of isolation, a dangerous loop for older adults. So not only do we face the challenge of ensuring that older adults are safe and protected from Covid but we also need to focus on support and resources to mitigate the detrimental effects of social isolation.

A new study out of the University of Cambridge underscores this necessity. Researchers conducting this study of over 460,000 people (average age of 57 followed for nearly 12 years) were interested to learn whether social isolation, as distinct from loneliness, could have an impact on one’s risk of dementia. Social isolation is the objective state of being cut off from social networks while loneliness is the subjective feeling of being alone, even if others are around. The results of the research are clear: Those people found to be socially isolated were 26% more likely to develop dementia than those not socially isolated and were also found to have lower brain volume in that area of the brain related to cognition and risk of dementia. This type of correlation did not exist for those who were just considered “lonely.” In order to determine whether someone was “socially isolated” researchers asked them 3 questions: Whether they lived with others; Whether they had visits with friends or family at least once per month; Whether they participated in social activities (like clubs or volunteering) at least once per week. Anyone who answered “no” to at least 2 of these questions was considered socially isolated. Bottom line? Social isolation may be an early indicator of an increased risk of dementia. To find out more about this research, click here. And for some ideas on how to spot and respond to the isolation and loneliness of loved ones, read here.