Social Engagement

There’s no doubt that our population is aging. And as a larger percentage of us get older, it’s important to understand how we can prolong our cognitive abilities and protect our brains from the ravages of dementia. After all, age is the major risk factor for Alzheimer’s, and projections are…

This past April, US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy created quite a stir when he declared that our country suffers from an epidemic of loneliness and isolation. He issued a 70+ page advisory report on the importance of social connection for the health and well-being of our country. Murthy, the author…

It’s no secret that friendships– perhaps even more than romantic or family relationships- are critical for keeping yourself healthy, both physically and mentally, as you move on into your later years. But as we’ve also previously said, friendships typically just don’t happen- they require effort, intention, and even active pursuit…

 As we’ve previously posted, social connections in your life appear to be critical for all sorts of health parameters as you get older. Covid underscored that even for the best of reasons, isolating older adults can cause serious negative consequences to their physical and emotional well-being. Even “weak ties,” i.e.,…

As we approach vacation season and perhaps trips to the beach or a lakeside retreat, pulling out a board game for some evening (or rainy day) adult fun- or for some multigenerational gathering- is a common and enjoyable way to spend time together (and good for your brain!). Whether it’s…

You may not be an extrovert, and you may shy away from casual conversations with those you don’t know well, but if you’re human, more and more research underscores the importance of social connections for your health and well-being. You may think your time for making friends or connecting socially…