Stay sociable and let brain reap the benefits

Socialising can have amazing impacts on our memory, mood and mental health. New research suggests that it could help reduce the risk of frailty later in life, too.

- By CAMILLA FOSTER

Researchers from Newcastle University examined data on more than 2,000 men over the age of 65 who were assessed eight years apart. The participants were asked questions on their social lives, including details of time spent with friends and family, volunteering, religious or social clubs, holidays and reading.

Results showed that those with higher social engagement at the start had a 31% lower risk of frailty, while those who increased their social activity over the period saw a 23% reduced risk.

These findings highlight how social connections can have massive benefits on our physical health, especially later in life, but what effects can they have on our brain?

Dr Steven Allder, consultant neurologist at Re:Cognition Health, tells us more...

Can staying sociable help delay cognitive decline?