3. Less cognitive reserve
Cognitive reserve is the brain’s ability to withstand damage and continue functioning well. Conversations, social participation, and new experiences all contribute to this reserve. Loneliness weakens it.
4. Detectable structural changes
Studies indicate that prolonged loneliness is not only noticeable in behavior, but also modifies brain structure: a reduction in volume in regions linked to memory and emotion.
Recommendations for older adults (and those who accompany them)
If you are a senior citizen or care for one, these actions can make a difference in memory health.
Building meaningful connections:
- Participate regularly —at least once a week— in group activities: book clubs, group walks, volunteering, art or music classes.
- Prioritize quality over quantity: it doesn’t matter how many people you have around you, but that the interactions have meaning, active listening, reciprocity.
- If mobility is reduced, consider interactive video calls with family or friends: talking, playing online games, cooking “together” remotely.
- Make at least one long phone call (10-15 minutes) with someone you had less contact with; reactivating those ties already helps.
